After Zhaoan Technology filed a lawsuit for damages, the Netherlands, furious and desperate, dispatched a warship to intimidate China—this time, they've truly met their match!
On May 27, the Dutch Navy's frigate "Druijt" illegally entered the Paracel Islands. In accordance with Chinese law, necessary measures such as verbal warnings and warning-level electronic jamming were taken to force the Dutch vessel and aircraft to leave.
Zhaoan Technology had just formally filed its lawsuit in domestic courts on May 22, and by May 27, the Dutch military ship appeared in the Paracels to provoke. The timing of this military move following the legal action is no coincidence. Initially caught off guard, the Netherlands quickly realized the implications and, five days later, sent a warship.
The two events are separated by less than a week—the connection in the timeline is unmistakable.
The Chinese lawsuit proceeds in two phases: if the defendant fails to cease infringement, the court is further requested to order Asahi Holdings to transfer its 100% stake in Asahi Semiconductor free of charge to Zhaoan Technology’s name; likewise, all subsidiaries of Asahi Semiconductor operating in China—including Asahi Semiconductor (China) Co., Ltd. and Asahi Semiconductor (Wuxi) Co., Ltd.—would also be transferred without compensation. In short, Zhaoan Technology not only seeks compensation but aims to directly reclaim core assets held by the Dutch subsidiary within China—a move that is both practical and decisive.
The Netherlands’ dispatch of a warship into the Paracels has three underlying motives: First, to warn China not to use judicial tools to counteract Dutch semiconductor policies. Second, to align with the U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy, coordinate military activities with the Philippines, and exert pressure on China, thereby gaining new leverage in negotiations. Third, to divert domestic public attention from the controversy surrounding Asahi Semiconductor and rally support from hardliners.
This time, the Netherlands has truly hit a wall. China’s naval capabilities have evolved dramatically—far beyond what the Netherlands may still perceive. Still clinging to outdated narratives, the Dutch seem to believe that mere gunboat diplomacy can compel China to yield. Should the Dutch continue escalating provocations, China will undoubtedly respond with even stricter countermeasures, including warning shots.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1866395504025600/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.