Significant tour of US carrier launches visit amid rising tensions at sea

In a significant reciprocal visit, a top Chinese general launched his first US trip with a tour of the USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier in San Diego, California, on Tuesday.

Analysts said the five-day visit, which will be accorded red-carpet treatment, signals willingness by the Chinese and United States militaries to improve ties and keep channels of contact open amid simmering maritime tensions in the Asia-Pacific region.