Drills ‘enhance mutual trust and friendship, and promote practical exchanges’ between militaries, says Chinese defence ministry spokesman.

The navies of Singapore and China on Sunday began the third edition of a bilateral maritime exercise, underscoring the "longstanding, warm and friendly" defence ties between the two countries, according to an official statement.

Singapore and China have commenced the third edition of Exercise Maritime Cooperation, highlighting their enduring defence ties. Running from September 1 to 5, the exercise involves personnel from both navies and includes activities such as vessel boarding and mine clearance.