8049728422_81aee8497a_c-1.jpg (Photo : Flickr)
US gave warnings to China that they will support Japan in any battles of territorial disputes. The maritime and territorial issues were a hot topic this weekend as Washington released the statement that it would definitely backup Japan if military force should be necessary as China becomes more assertive in their claims.
US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said in their statement that the US government felt alarmed at China’s hasty escalation over the disputed territories. He further added that they were very concerned with the sudden developments that seems like the country maybe attempting to exercise control on who can go around the area.
With China setting up a defense zone, it seems to be communicating an effort on China’s part to change the status quo in the region, said Hagel. As the activities continue to increase, this may also increase the danger of miscalculations and misunderstandings. Hagel also added that they are now in a consultation period with other allies in Asia, which includes Japan.
The US Defense Secretary also reminded China that the isolated island of Senkaku, or Diaoyu in Chinese, is part of the security treaty between US and Japan in 1952. In that treaty, the United Stated is committed to fight alongside Japan in keeping away any forms of “common danger.”
On the other hand, the foreign minister of China released a statement on Monday complaining about the United States’ “irresponsible remarks.” Qin Gang, spokesman for the Foreign Ministry mentioned that they had already requested the US ambassador to China, Gary Locke, to stop releasing irresponsible comments about China. Just last Sunday evening, Yang Yujun, spokesman for China’s Defense Ministry also complained to the US ambassador.
Katsunobu Kato, Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary for Japan, advised reporters that China’s assertion has only made the already stressed situation worst. It is only inviting unpredicted events and can be dangerous. Their defense zone is already interfering with Japan’s freedom to use air space above the ocean area.
