Japan denies China’s claim to Ryukyu Islands

At a news conference on Monday, Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara was asked about a Chinese newspaper’s assertion that Japan’s sovereignty over the southern island of Okinawa was questioned. “What is the government’s position and response?” the reporter asked. Kihara responded with no response. He said there was no need to talk about the issue “because there is no doubt that Okinawa is our country’s territory.” He added that Japan would continue to refute claims that contradict the facts.

Chinese media questions Japan’s sovereignty over Okinawa

Earlier this month, the state-run global times China published an article calling for further research on the Ryukyu Island Chain, arguing that “historical and legal disputes over island sovereignty have never stopped.” The statement also said, “The geopolitical status, strategic choices and future trajectory of the Ryukyu Islands not only determine its own destiny, but also profoundly affect the security concerns of neighboring countries and regions.” “

For centuries, the Ryukyu Islands had been in a dual suzerainty relationship, paying tribute to the Satsuma Domain of China and Japan, until they were fully annexed by Japan in 1879 and reorganized into Okinawa Prefecture. Although the prefecture only accounts for about 0.6% of Japan’s land area, about 70% of the U.S. military bases in Japan are currently located in the prefecture. These bases are considered an important part of the “First Island Chain,” a strategic geostrategic concept aimed at containing China.

Japan-China relations continue to deteriorate

Sino-Japanese relations have continued to deteriorate in recent weeks after Sanae Takaichi made remarks about Taiwan earlier this month. Japan’s prime minister has claimed that China’s naval blockade of Taiwan could pose an “existential threat”, forcing Japan to respond. China reacted strongly, summoning its ambassador from Tokyo and advising its citizens not to travel to Japan. The impact has also affected the entertainment industry, with some Japanese artists forced to cancel performances in China.

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