China and Japan Escalate Standoff Over Arrest

Two weeks ago, the Japanese coast guard arrested a Chinese trawler boat captain in the disputed waters of uninhabited islands claimed by both countries after a collision with two Japanese boats coast guard boats. This issue underscores Asian fears over China's recent growth in global power, since such a minor charge has turned into a major standoff. The two countries have extensive economic and political ties, according to the New York Times, but these are threatened as trade slows between the two countries and protests begin to break out. Beijing has suspended all interactions with the Japanese government, and threatens consequences against the Japanese if they do not cooperate and set the captain unconditionally free. The fear has become that China will not restrict its claims to territory in the area, and will eventually exert more force than the Japanese. Uncharacteristically, strong calls in Japan have been made to stand up to the Chinese, and Japan's government has turned from its policy of increasing Asian relations to finding protection from Washington D.C. China still see Japan as a front for the U.S. in Asia, and still resents Japanese occupation in World War II. These issues all underpin a highly contentious issue that needs to be resolved, but in its resolve, will hold major implications for the region.
by Margaret Nunne