Chinese Aircraft Carriers Flex Muscles in Pacific: Political Implications

The unprecedented simultaneous operations of two Chinese aircraft carriers in the Pacific are generating political ripples across the region. According to Taiwan Defence Minister Wellington Koo, these activities underscore China's expansionist ambitions. On the preceding day, Japan highlighted that this maneuver demonstrates Beijing's aim to project its power well beyond its shores.

Koo affirmed that Taiwan's military is closely monitoring the carriers' activities, stating the move from the first to the second island chain represents a calculated political signal. This area spans from Japan to Taiwan, then extends further into the Pacific, reaching the U.S. territory of Guam.

China, which routinely conducts such naval exercises, claims these operations are standard training not directed at any specific nation. However, the frequent large-scale movements have raised regional tensions, with Japan confirming that the carriers Liaoning and Shandong were active near its southern islands, including within Japan's exclusive economic zone.

(With inputs from agencies.)