Thu Sep 19 07:28:02 UTC 2024: ## Chinese Aircraft Carrier Liaoning Conducts Exercise in West Pacific, Sparking Tensions with Taiwan and Japan
**Taipei/Tokyo, September 18, 2024** – The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy’s aircraft carrier Liaoning has conducted an exercise in the West Pacific, prompting concerns from both Taiwan and Japan. The exercise, deemed normal and legitimate by Chinese experts, has sparked tension in the region.
According to statements from Taiwan’s defense authority and Japan’s Ministry of Defense, the Liaoning, accompanied by two Type 052D destroyers, sailed through waters northeast of Taiwan and continued towards the southeast of Yonaguni Island, Japan.
This marks the first time a PLA Navy aircraft carrier has been spotted in this region, according to the Japanese press release. Reuters reported that the carrier entered Japan’s contiguous waters for the first time during this voyage.
China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Lin Jian, referred media inquiries regarding the Liaoning’s transit to relevant Chinese authorities. However, he emphasized that the PLA Navy’s activities were in accordance with both domestic and international law.
Military expert Fu Qianshao explained that the waters between Yonaguni and Iriomote islands, despite being narrow, are an internationally recognized waterway. Therefore, the PLA Navy’s passage through this strait is legitimate. He further emphasized that the Liaoning’s transit signifies the PLA Navy’s ability to break through the first island chain into the West Pacific, utilizing multiple passageways beyond the Miyako Strait.
The Liaoning’s exercise in the West Pacific comes amidst escalating tensions in the region, highlighting the growing military presence of China in the area.
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