CRI听力:China-Russia Joint Naval Drill Launches in Russian Port City

A Chinese-Russian joint naval drill has kicked off in the Russian Black Sea port city of Novorossiysk.

The training exercises are set to take place in the Mediterranean.

Alexander Fedotenkov, Russia's Deputy Naval Commander, says this is the latest in a series of drills the Chinese and Russian Navies have taken part in.

"The navy of People's Liberation Army and the Federal Navy of Russia have been in friendly relations with each other for many years. The two navies have completed complex tasks together. The case in point is the successful completion of transporting Syria chemical weapons in Mediterranean regions. The main purpose of Joint actions is to establish effective methods to combat maritime seaborne."

Chinese military observer Liang Fang says the naval exercises in the Mediterranean represent the next step forward in the naval relationship between China and Russia.

"The maritime cooperation between two countries is enjoying deeper development. For example, in 2012, there was only joint escort exercises. In 2013 there was joint defense operation through electronic communication channels. Only through a high level of mutual strategic trust can all these kinds of drills be conducted."

Dong Jun, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Chinese Navy, says the exercises will run until May 21st.

A total of 9 ships from both sides are taking part.