2024-09-11 08:56:40
Rio de Janeiro: Despite the growing tension between the US and China, soldiers of both countries are participating in a joint military exercise. This military exercise is being organized in Brazil. The Brazilian Navy said in a recent announcement that for the first time, the US and Chinese navies are participating in the joint military exercise “Operation Formosa” organized by the Brazilian Navy. The Brazilian Defense Ministry said that more than 3,000 soldiers are currently being trained in combat under the exercise. This military exercise will continue till September 17.
Latin America’s largest military exercise
Operation Formosa is one of the largest military exercises held in Latin America since the 1980s. The exercises are held near the Brazilian city of Formosa. They have no connection to Taiwan, which was known as Formosa before being renamed in 1895. China took part in Operation Formosa last year, but only as an observer, while the US sent troops from US Southern Command.
Chinese and US naval troops involved
A Brazilian Defense Ministry spokesman told the Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post that this year’s exercises involved 33 personnel from the Chinese Navy and 54 from the United States Navy. It is rare for U.S. and Chinese forces to exercise together. “There is a tradition of inviting friendly countries to participate in these exercises. The importance of such invitations is directly linked to the opportunity to promote greater integration between the Brazilian Navy and friendly forces,” the Brazilian navy said in a statement on Sept. 7.
US embassy confirms exercise
The US Marine Corps Forces South and the Brazilian Naval Infantry (CFN) launched the Formosa exercise aimed at enhancing bilateral training partnerships, the US Embassy in Brazil said in a statement on September 9. The statement made no mention of China’s participation in the exercise. “Our cooperation with the Brazilian Naval Infantry in the Formosa exercise underscores the importance of international cooperation in maintaining regional security,” said Lt. Gen. Leonard Anderson, commander of MARFORSOUTH and US Marine Forces Reserve.
Brazil is increasing military relations with China
The U.S. and Brazil regularly conduct joint military exercises. China’s participation in the current Formosa exercise comes at a time when Brazil is trying to forge closer ties with China. The Chinese Defense Ministry said the exercise will “deepen friendship and cooperation between the Chinese and participating militaries and enhance their ability to jointly respond to security risk challenges.”