The Chinese and Mongolian armies on Friday conducted a live-fire drill at a training ground in Dornogovi Province of Mongolia to enhance combat capabilities and coordination in a real combat scenario as part of the ongoing "Steppe Partner-2024" joint military training.
The training, which started from May 12, represents the first-ever collaboration between the ground forces of the two countries.
The participating troops from China are mainly chosen from a brigade under the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) 79th Group Army.
Friday's training mainly tested the capabilities of command, coordination, and logistical support required for joint operations against illegal armed groups. It also aimed to identify and resolve potential conflicts that may arise during real combat scenarios.
"Through this drill, we have had a deep understanding of the battlefield environment in the area. Due to strong winds and soft sands in the area, it is easier for the vehicles to get stuck and it's difficult for us to maintain formation of the convoy. Therefore, we need to constantly adapt to the local conditions and work closely with each other," said Jiao Renpeng, a soldier from the Chinese side.
The Chinese forces deployed reconnaissance, firepower, and air defense units, utilizing various weapon systems such as unmanned reconnaissance aircraft, assault vehicles, and infantry fighting vehicles to conduct aerial reconnaissance, precision strikes, and fire coverage on targets in different areas.
In the one-hour drill, the Chinese and Mongolian forces successfully completed tasks such as joint blockade, firepower strikes, and rapid encirclement.
The official joint training involving live ammunition will take place on Sunday.
Chinese, Mongolian armies conduct "Steppe Partner-2024" joint training
On his second official visit to China, Prime Minister of the Republic of Vanuatu Charlot Salwai expressed admiration for China's remarkable ability to balance preserving its cultural heritage with embracing innovative transformation.
Salwai paid an official visit to China from July 7 to 12. During his trip, he toured the southern province of Guangdong and explored the megacities of Beijing and Shanghai. His visit included tours of high-tech companies, a ride on a high-speed train, and a performance of traditional Cantonese opera.
In an interview with China Central Television Network (CCTV) aired on Friday, Salwai recounted his journey starting with a warm welcome that included enjoying Beijing Roast Duck, also known as Peking Duck -- a culinary delight introduced to him by the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu.
"Many had to say. Peking Duck. Because we had it here on our arrival, so it was very tasty. And I understand that the Chinese ambassador in Vanuatu brought us to one of the traditional restaurants, small but beautiful," he said. The prime minister sees China's preservation of its culture as a vital lesson in understanding one's roots and the journey to the present day, acknowledging China's efforts to integrate cultural preservation with modernization.
"It's going to be my second official visit to China. I'm always impressed to see big changes and especially innovations made by China and especially the cities. Because a big impression is to see how China continues to maintain and keep its culture. Because I think it's the basis of everything -- to know where you come from and to understand where we are today. I feel that China is doing a lot to maintain its culture, but at the same time, doing, innovating to transform its culture,” Salwai said.
He also emphasized the importance of learning from China's sustainable development strategies.
"Today, it comes from a long way, some hardship, the government, and also the people of China. So, I'm impressed to see what is done, especially how China associates infrastructure development with nature. That's meant to keep, continue to keep the environment. It takes effort with the climate change by maintaining the ecosystem. I think it's something that, for a small country like Vanuatu, is important to learn. So, we are here. I'm here with my delegation to learn," Salwai said.
Vanuatu's PM commends China's cultural preservation, innovation amid fast growth
