Italian Navy Aircraft Carrier Makes First-Ever Port Call in Japan, Signaling Growing EuropeanPresence in Indo-Pacific
YOKOSUKA, Japan – Ina significant display of growing European engagement in the Indo-Pacific region, the Italian Navy’s aircraft carrier, the Cavour, made its inaugural port callin Japan on August 22nd. The carrier, accompanied by two other Italian naval vessels, docked at the Yokosuka Naval Base in Kanagawa Prefecture.
The arrival of the Cavour was met with a warm welcome from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). Speaking at a ceremony held to mark the occasion, JMSDF Commander of the First Escort Group, Junhiko Sawada, emphasized the importance of Italy’s increased involvement in the Indo-Pacific. We believe that Italy’s enhanced participation in the Indo-Pacific region will contribute to regional peace and stability, and help maintain order, he stated.
The Cavour, a formidable vessel measuring 244 meters in length, is capable of carrying 12 helicopters and 8 fighter jets. The carrier had departed Italy in June and participated in large-scale exercises conducted by the Royal Australian Air Force in early July.
This port call marks a significant milestone in Italy’s growing engagement in the Indo-Pacific. The Cavour is the first Italian aircraft carrier to visit Japan, and its arrival follows a series of high-profile visits by European naval and air forces to the region.
Earlier this year, warships from theUnited Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Germany, along with fighter jets from Germany, Spain, France, and Italy, have all made port calls in Japan. This trend of increased European presence in the Indo-Pacific is widely seen as a response to China’s growing assertiveness in the region.
The Cavour’s visit is likely to further strengthen the strategic partnership between Italy and Japan. Both countries share a common interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific, and the visit provides an opportunity for the two navies to enhance cooperation and interoperability.
The Cavour is expected to remain in Japanfor several days, during which time the Italian and Japanese navies will conduct a series of joint exercises and engagements. These activities will focus on enhancing maritime security and cooperation in the region.
The growing European presence in the Indo-Pacific is a significant development that is likely to have a major impact on the regional security landscape. While the European powers have traditionally focused their attention on Europe and the Atlantic, they are increasingly recognizing the importance of the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in light of China’s growing economic and military power.
The Cavour’s visit to Japan is a clear indication of this shift in Europeanstrategic thinking. It remains to be seen how this trend will evolve in the coming years, but it is clear that the Indo-Pacific region is becoming increasingly important for European security and prosperity.
【来源】https://nwapi.nhk.jp/nhkworld/rdnewsweb/v6b/zh/detail/20240823_ML09.json
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