The USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier and its support ships are in

The USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier and its support ships are in Hong Kong for a four-day visit.

It is seen as a sign of improving military ties between the United States and China.

The strike group commander, Rear Admiral Robert Girrier, said the US welcomed the rise of China as a peaceful power and did not regard it as a threat.

However, he declined to comment on the launch of sea trials of China’s first aircraft carrier earlier this week, which have raised questions in Washington about Beijing’s military intentions.

RADM Girrier said: “I have no specific opinion regarding the sea trials…we watch military capability developments of countries in the region and the US Navy will continue to operate as it has in the past, on the high seas and international waters.”

The nuclear-powered supercarrier was deployed back in March to provide support after Japan’s massive earthquake. It acted as a refuelling station for the Japanese military and coast guard helicopters flying relief missions in the area.

Source AFP