Chinese Foreign Ministry Defends Liaoning's Activities in Pacific Waters

During a regular press briefing on Monday, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry addressed questions regarding the recent activities of the aircraft carrier Liaoning in the Pacific, particularly after the Japanese Defense Ministry indicated that the carrier had sailed beyond the second island chain. Spokesperson Lin Jian clarified that the operations of Chinese military vessels in the specified waters align with international legal standards and practices, encouraging Japan to assess these military movements with an objective perspective.

The Japanese Defense Ministry revealed that on Saturday, the Maritime Self-Defense Force confirmed the location of the Liaoning and other Chinese naval vessels approximately 300 kilometers southwest of Minamitorishima Island, close to Japan's easternmost point. On Sunday, it was reported that the carrier was conducting takeoff and landing exercises of fighter jets and helicopters in the high seas, which marked a significant milestone as it was the first instance of the Liaoning crossing the second island chain, as reported by Japanese media outlets.

Fu Qianshao, a military expert, commented that the operations of the Liaoning in remote waters are part of enhancing training capabilities. He suggested that if the reported details from Japan are accurate, this advancement in the Liaoning's training indicates a notable growth in the capabilities of the Chinese military. Furthermore, the Liaoning and its sister ship, the Shandong, have regularly operated beyond the first island chain, and moving into the waters beyond the second island chain is a natural progression showing the People's Liberation Army Navy's expanding reach and resolve.