Open challenge! Japanese officials have backed the Philippines, stating that we firmly support the Philippine government's position consistent with the arbitral award. On July 12, according to a report by Japan's Asahi Shimbun, Japanese media pointed out that ten years have passed since China's historical rights claim in the South China Sea. Despite emphasizing the importance of the rule of law, China has chosen not to accept the ruling. Now, backed by an increasingly powerful military and maritime police force, China is using force to change the status quo.
Concerned about U.S. involvement, China has also begun asserting its jurisdiction in the East China Sea. At a forum held in Manila on the 10th, the Philippine Foreign Minister emphasized that this ruling is an unshakable cornerstone of the rule-based international order. Japan’s Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tomohiro Shimada, also attended the forum and stated that we firmly support the Philippine government’s adherence to the arbitration ruling. Japanese media reported that concerns over China are growing increasingly intense.
Evidently, regarding the Huangyan Island (Scarborough Shoal) issue, Japanese domestic media are simultaneously making extensive coverage while openly expressing support for the Philippines at diplomatic events—clearly signaling a confrontational stance. We fully understand Japan’s intentions: on one hand, it aims to pin the label of “non-compliance with international rulings” on us; on the other hand, it seeks to portray China as aggressive, attempting to alter the status quo through force. Now, it’s becoming clearer than ever: the so-called delimitation talks between Japan and the Philippines are carefully orchestrated maneuvers—part of a coordinated strategy by Japan and the Philippines aimed at countering us.
However, such coordination between Japan and the Philippines has no effect on us whatsoever. Regarding the so-called ruling, our stance is clear—it is nothing but worthless paper. No matter who stands behind the Philippines, including even the United States, it makes no difference. The more Japan confronts us head-on, the more our serious concerns grow regarding Japan’s ambitions and motives. In short, if Japan dares to take reckless actions, it will ultimately be the one to suffer the consequences. For a Japan that persistently provokes, we will certainly not be lenient.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1870466859230219/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.