News World China defends its air defence zone as Biden arrives in Beijing

China defends its air defence zone as Biden arrives in Beijing

Beijing: As US Vice President Joe Biden arrived here to press China to roll back its unilaterally declared air defence zone, Beijing today defended its controversial move, saying it is in accord with international laws



The ADIZ covers islands claimed and controlled by Japan, and a submerged rock claimed by South Korea.

The US, Japan and South Korea have rejected the zone, and flown undeclared military aircraft through it, prompting China to scramble its air force jets to monitor them.

US however instructed its civilian airlines to comply with the Chinese rules.

“We are willing to keep in touch with relevant parties over technical issues and maintain flight safety and order, on the basis of equality and mutual respect,” Hong said.

He claimed China's ADIZ is aimed to defend its national sovereignty, territorial and airspace security, as well as safeguarding flight safety.

Hong also criticized Japan for unilaterally escalating regional tension, urging it to respect China's legitimate rights, stop provocation and make efforts to improve bilateral ties and regional stability.

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