Chi 'happy' about India rejecting Australia's proposal for val drill

Beijing, May 3: Chi on Wednesday said it was “happy” to know that India has refused Australia’s offer to join upcoming val exercises with Japan and the US, a move that could have irked Beijing. “I have seen the relevant report. I think India is also clear about the consideration behind this behaviour,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said here. “We are happy to see no more dialogue and communication on security issues,” a smiling Hua said in an obvious reference to Australia. India has reportedly rejected Australia’s proposal to take part in a joint val exercise with Japan and the US in the Bay of Bengal in July. “But we also hope that when conducting such operations the parties can fully consider the security concerns for the relevant parties and also play a positive and constructive role in promoting regiol peace and stability,” Hua added. Chi has been expanding its footprints in the Indian Ocean, causing concern to India. As a counter to Chi’s growing influence, India has been holding the val drill ‘Malabar’ with Japan and the US. Chi has been wary of the exercise and Australia’s entry into the drill would have added to its worry. (IANS)