Japan, though not directly embroiled in the territorial disputes in the South China Sea (SCS), has found itself involved due to its economic and strategic interests in the region. Recently, Japan voiced its concerns to the United Nations, protesting against China’s baseline claims and its constraints on freedom of navigation in the SCS.
The Senkaku Islands and Japan’s Concerns
The existing tensions in the South China Sea have amplified Japan’s concerns due to its ongoing dispute with China over the Senkaku Islands. Japan’s long-standing administrative control over these islands makes the dispute with China distinct yet interconnected with the South China Sea issue.
International Cooperation and Security Dialogues
Japan’s recent actions include diplomatic efforts with other nations to counter China’s territorial claims. Such efforts include consultations with Southeast Asian nations and forming new security collaborations with countries like the Philippines and the United States.
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The Rule of Law and China’s Non-compliance
Japan, alongside the United States, urges China to respect the 2016 ruling by the UNCLOS tribunal which invalidated China’s “nine-dash line” claim. However, China’s defiance of the international law undermines the rule of law, contributing to rising tensions in the region.
