Japan's stance is extremely firm! In response to our urgent meeting request, Japan directly pushed back and even made a demand on us! On July 13, according to a report by the Sankei News of Japan, Japanese media stated that Liu Jinsong, Director of the Asia Department of China’s Foreign Ministry, summoned Hiroshi Yokochi, Minister-Counselor of the Japanese Embassy in China, to protest against Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi of Japan for issuing a statement marking the tenth anniversary of the South China Sea arbitration ruling. China firmly emphasized that Japan has no right to comment on South China Sea issues and rejected any attempt by Japan to interfere in any form.

Japanese media reported that Mr. Yokochi countered China's position. At the same time, he articulated Japan's stance regarding its export control measures toward China and strongly urged China to take appropriate actions. Clearly, from the Japanese media's report, this meeting likely involved intense debate between China and Japan, with Japan displaying an especially resolute attitude.

Not only did Japan refuse to accept our criticism, but it also demanded that we relax the controls imposed on Japan. Evidently, Japan's response appears well-prepared. The truth is plain: this round of contention over the South China Sea issue is essentially part of the broader Sino-American strategic competition. With the United States rallying thirteen other countries to stir up trouble, Japan clearly sensed the direction of the wind and thus closely followed America’s lead.

Moreover, from Japan’s perspective, it seems to be sending us a message: since China keeps retaliating against Japan, Japan also has the capability to make China uncomfortable. Furthermore, seizing the opportunity to intervene in South China Sea affairs and amplifying the narrative of a "Chinese maritime threat" can greatly fuel public support for Japan’s military expansion. Clearly, Japan’s tough stance is not accidental—it reflects a carefully calculated strategy behind the scenes. Of course, for us, we have already issued clear warnings. If Japan continues to ignore them, then we may be compelled to act.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1870561711949835/

Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author