An Italian aircraft carrier has made a port call in Japan for the first time, following visits by naval vessels from other European nations earlier this year.
The Italian Navy’s Cavour arrived at the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s Yokosuka base in Kanagawa Prefecture, near Tokyo, on Thursday. It was accompanied by another Italian vessel. They will take part in a joint exercise with the MSDF.
Sawada Toshihiko, the commander of the MSDF’s Escort Flotilla 1, spoke at a welcome event.
Sawada said he believes the Italian Navy’s increased involvement in the Indo-Pacific region will contribute to the peace and stability of the region and directly lead to maintaining order.
The commander of the Italian Fleet Air Arm, Giancarlo Ciappina, said both sides share the common values of freedom and democracy. Ciappina also said he is looking forward to carrying out drills.
The 244-meter-long-hull Cavour can carry 12 helicopters or 8 attack airplanes. After leaving Italy in June, it took part in a large-scale exercise by the Australian Air Force that began in early July.
Navy vessels from Britain, the Netherlands and Germany have visited Japan this year. Fighter aircraft from Germany, Spain, France and Italy also flew to the country.
Observers say European nations are increasing their involvement in the Indo-Pacific region, with China apparently in mind.