Author: Zhanhu Express
According to CNN, the Japanese authorities recently stated that two Chinese Coast Guard ships sailed continuously for more than 64 hours in the Diaoyu Islands waters. The Japanese side said that this was the first time for Chinese Coast Guard ships in 10 years. This is the longest stay in the waters of Diaoyu Islands in one week. Japanese security authorities said Chinese ships entered the waters of the Diaoyu Islands in the early hours of Tuesday and continued to monitor a Japanese fishing boat operating in the waters until Thursday night. On Thursday, one of the Chinese Coast Guard ships sailed within 3 kilometers of the Diaoyu Islands. According to reports, the longest continuous stay by a Chinese official ship in the waters around the Diaoyu Islands occurred in October 2020, when a Chinese ship stayed for more than 57 hours.
As the United States returns to the Asia-Pacific region, it also regards China as its main strategic competitor. Japan began to change its attitude towards China and was willing to act as a "pawn" for the United States to contain China. In recent years, the relationship between China and Japan can be said to be more competitive than cooperative, and there has been constant competition in the international arena. On the Taiwan issue, Japan has repeatedly stated its support for the Taiwan authorities, and even threatened to work with the United States to "protect Taiwan." It also boasted that "Taiwan's affairs are Japan's affairs." This kind of behavior can be said to be an interference in China's internal affairs and a direct provocation to China. The two sides have engaged in many rounds of diplomatic games over this, and China has even taken many military actions. For example, Sino-Russian joint maritime exercises directly cruise the main island of Japan; Continental warships pass through the Miyako Strait and exit the Pacific; Continental warships frequently appear in the Sea of Japan for training, etc. These are strong warnings to Japan.
However, Japan is determined to follow the United States. Under China's deterrence, it has not restrained, but has intensified its attacks on China. A few days ago, China built a gas field mining facility in the East China Sea. Japan came out to protest, saying that China had violated its "interests." In response, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs directly responded, saying that this is entirely a matter within the scope of China's sovereign rights and jurisdiction, and the Japanese side should not make irresponsible remarks. Not only that, on June 24, a "small group" composed of the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Australia and New Zealand announced the formation of a "new group" - "Blue Pacific Partners". Its purpose is to counter China's influence in the Pacific region.
Faced with Japan’s rampant behavior, it is not difficult to understand why China took the initiative in the waters around the Diaoyu Islands. There is a reason why the Chinese Coast Guard ship stayed in the waters near the Diaoyu Islands for a "record-breaking time" this time. The Japanese side has made it very clear that it is to continue to monitor a Japanese fishing boat operating in the waters. This shows that China is safeguarding its country's sovereign rights while cruising in the waters around the Diaoyu Islands. Japan said it was monitoring Japanese fishing boats, but this fishing boat is most likely not simple. Either it wants to break into the waters of the Diaoyu Islands, or the fishing boat is disguised. Otherwise, the Chinese Coast Guard would not pay so much attention to it. It can be said that in this matter, China once again gave Japan a warning and once again declared China's sovereignty over the Diaoyu Islands. What's more, China has stated on many occasions that the law enforcement activities carried out by Chinese government ships within the territorial waters of the country are legitimate, legal and undisputed, and will continue to be carried out on a regular basis.
Regarding the struggle and game between China and Japan in the East China Sea, the Diaoyu Islands are actually a key fulcrum. It can be said that whoever controls the Diaoyu Islands between China and Japan will have the initiative in the East China Sea. After all, its geographical location is extremely advantageous. China's control can naturally deter Japan and develop our exclusive economic zone. Japan's control can naturally deter China. Fortunately, the Diaoyu Islands are now under China's actual control. In addition, from a legal perspective, the Diaoyu Islands belong to China, so Japan's so-called disputes seem a bit insignificant. After all, we have great righteousness and have extraordinary strength, so it is impossible for Japan to take advantage of us. As China's comprehensive national strength increases and its naval strength improves, it is only a matter of time before the Diaoyu Islands issue is completely resolved.Just imagine, if three aircraft carriers are deployed one after another, or even four or five aircraft carriers, Japan will have the courage to fight with us.
here also warns Japan not to do anything against China anymore. China is its neighbor in a narrow strip of water, and it is really not wise to offend China. And if it rashly intervenes in the game between China and the United States, it is likely to end up playing the role of cannon fodder. If Japan can step back from the brink and not confront China, cooperation between the two sides can continue. If it insists on having its own way and insists on fighting with China, then the future struggle between the two sides will inevitably become more intense. The entire East China Sea may become a battlefield for the game between China and Japan. We need to be prepared for this and take the initiative when necessary.
