© Toru Hanai / ReutersThe Izumo military helicopter carrier of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force
China is waiting to hear official word from Japan on why it is reportedly planning to send its largest warship on a three-month tour in the South China Sea. Beijing claims most of the waterway as its own, despite competing claims from other countries.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told a news briefing on Tuesday that Beijing is unsure whether the helicopter carrier 'Izumo' is merely passing through to visit Southeast Asian countries, or if there is another aim.
"We have not yet heard what Japan says officially," Hua said, as quoted by Reuters.
"If it's only a normal visit, going to several countries, and passing normally through the South China Sea, then we've got no objections, and we hope this kind of normal exchange between relevant countries can play a role promoting regional peace and stability," she added.
Comment: DOJ having trouble finding the evidence?