Tensions Rise in the Indo-Pacific as Japan Asserts Claims on Islets Controlled by South Korea
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Synopsis
On Feb 23, a ceremony in Matsue, Japan, reaffirmed the nation's claim over islets controlled by South Korea. The dispute over Takeshima, known as Dokdo in South Korea, remains a contentious issue, with officials from both sides advocating for their respective territorial claims.
Key Takeaways
- Japan held a ceremony asserting its claim over the islets.
- The islets are known as Takeshima in Japan and Dokdo in South Korea.
- Both nations claim historical and legal rights over the territory.
- South Korea condemned Japan's claims as unjust.
- Diplomatic negotiations are essential for resolution.
Matsue, Feb 23 (NationPress) In a potential diplomatic crisis within the Indo-Pacific region, an annual ceremony to reinforce Japan's claim over the islets currently administered by South Korea was conducted in Matsue, the capital of Shimane Prefecture, Japan. The ongoing territorial contention over the islets, referred to as Takeshima in Japan and Dokdo in South Korea, remains a significant issue between the two nations.
This year marked the 20th iteration of the ceremony, which saw attendance from Tatsuya Maruyama, the Governor of Shimane Prefecture, and Eriko Imai, a parliamentary vice minister from the Cabinet Office representing the national government. Both officials advocated for a resolution to the territorial dispute surrounding the islets.
“Territorial issues are diplomatic matters, requiring engagement at the governmental level,” stated Maruyama, emphasizing the need for a diplomatic resolution, as reported by local media.
A document released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan asserts that Takeshima is an undisputed part of Japan’s territory, based on historical evidence and international law. The document claims that South Korea's occupation of Takeshima lacks legal grounds under international law and that any actions taken by South Korea regarding Takeshima are not legally justified. Japan intends to pursue a peaceful resolution to the territorial sovereignty dispute over Takeshima in accordance with international law.
Conversely, the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs has declared that Dokdo is an essential part of Korean territory, both historically and geographically, as well as under international law.
South Korea insists there is no territorial dispute regarding Dokdo, asserting that it is not subject to diplomatic negotiations or judicial resolution. The South Korean government maintains firm control over Dokdo and is committed to defending its sovereignty against any provocations.
In response to Japan’s recent ceremony, South Korea condemned the event and protested against Japan’s renewed claims over Dokdo.
“The Japanese government must immediately halt its unfounded claims over Dokdo, which is evidently South Korean territory historically, geographically, and under international law. The government should confront history with humility,” stated Lee Jae-woong, the spokesperson for the South Korean Foreign Ministry.
