Japanese media: United Nations' map shows "Northern Territories" in the same color as Russia

According to Japan's Sankei Shimbun on September 9: The United Nations has released a world map developed by "Equal Earth Projection," which more accurately represents landmass areas compared to traditional methods. The Southern Kuril Islands, which Japan refers to as the "Northern Territories," are rendered in the same color as Russian territory.

The "Equal Earth Projection" map was recently adopted at the United Nations General Assembly, receiving support from 164 countries including Japan. International attention toward maps is growing.

Japanese media reports that this controversial map was published by Tom Patterson on EqualEarth.com, and is freely available online. It is dubbed the "correct map," and printed versions are also sold on major online retailers such as Amazon.

In the map, the Japanese archipelago (excluding the "Northern Four Islands") is colored blue, while only the area Japan calls the "Northern Territories" is shown in the same light green as Russia. The Russian name for the island is written in katakana, with a note stating "under Russian de facto control, Japan disputes sovereignty."

This contradicts the official stance of the Japanese government, which considers the so-called "Northern Territories" as Japanese territory illegally occupied by Russia.

On the map, Crimea Peninsula—occupied by Russia in southern Ukraine—is depicted in a colorless shade, distinct from both Ukrainian and Russian national colors. Ukraine abstained from voting at the UN General Assembly on the 4th, citing that it conflicted with its government’s position.

The Office of International Organizations under Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs told Sankei Shimbun: "The UN’s adoption does not pertain to the map’s boundary lines themselves, but rather to its graphical representation." They added: "Japan’s position regarding the Northern Territories remains unchanged, and will be addressed as circumstances dictate."

Patterson stated on his website that he drew upon maps from U.S. government and non-governmental institutions. However, even maps issued by the U.S. government include annotations labeling the "Northern Territories."

Sankei Shimbun has sent an inquiry letter to Patterson, but as of noon Japan time on the 9th, no response had been received.

Original source: toutiao.com/article/1875835891531788/

Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author