As Chinese assertion grows, France plans aircraft carrier in Indian Ocean

France, Australia and India had a responsibility to protect the region from 'hegemony' -- a veiled reference to Beijing's growing might.

US limits nuclear technology to China citing proliferation, military diversion

The move came a day after US Dept of Justice announced arrest of Chinese intelligence officer who was stealing secret info.

Trump's remarks came hrs after he was briefed at White House by Pompeo on his meetings with top Chinese leadership in Beijing this week.

China expressed firm opposition to US warship sailing near islands and reefs claimed by it in South China Sea.

The 12-mile distance is commonly accepted as constituting the territorial waters of a landmass.

Three helicopters from the Japanese carrier hovered above, monitoring the drill.

Pentagon spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Dave Eastburn said this week's flights were part of 'regularly scheduled operations.'

Japan's 2018 defence white paper said Beijing was sparking 'security concerns in region and international community, including Japan'.

China insists on outside countries being excluded, as per a draft document, in what analysts said was a bid to diminish US influence.

The 248 metre-long Kaga, which can operate several helicopters simultaneously, will make stops in India, Sri Lanka and Indonesia.