China defends the operations of aircraft carriers

In response to Tokyo's latest claim that it has identified two Chinese aircraft carriers operating at the same time, the Foreign Ministry said the activities of Chinese warships in the relevant waters were "fully in line with international norms".

Two Chinese aircraft carriers, the Shandong and Liaoning, have operated simultaneously in the Pacific Ocean for the first time, Japan's Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.

"I would like to reiterate that the activities of Chinese naval vessels in the relevant waters are fully in line with international norms," said Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian.

"China has consistently adhered to a defensive national defense policy," he said at a regular press conference in Beijing.

Beijing expects Tokyo to view the situation "in an objective and rational manner", he added.