Top U.S. general tells China U.S. committed to defending Japan

“In the case of Japan, I was careful to remind them (China’s senior leaders) that the U.S. has certain treaty obligations with Japan, that we would honor,” Dempsey told reporters in Beijing.

To the naive PRC officials they interpet this statement as,"It's okay PRC we will do nothing, please invade whatever you want."

You know good ole Saddam Hussein thought he got the same message in '90 and see where it got him.

As I've said before, although it seems to be above some C-supporters comprehension abilities, that China has effectively lost this game. The ONLY way they can take the Senkakus is by force, which will mean a confrontation with the United States, which China does NOT want. And there will undoubtedly be those who call the implementation of the US-Japan Mutual Defense Treaty as "Japan hiding behind the U.S.". China's claim to the islands, their alleged evidence, and supporters arguments are collectively childish.

By their continued belligerent actions, China is advocating war over peace. Unfortunately there are always bullies who don't understand anything until they get a good beating. China needs to change their ways before they start WWIII.

All of this rhetoric is playing right into Abe's hands with regards to changing the constitution and making the JIETAI a formal military force.

All of this rhetoric is playing right into Abe's hands with regards to changing the constitution and making the JIETAI a formal military force.

The common term for that is "normal country"

Can't depend on others for timely & preemptive. China justifying Japan military to the fore

Yeah, I have to agree, the Chinese are giving Abe just what he needs to take the military out of the closet. And then go nuclear, perhaps. It's a rotten situation. I guess that means we'll be hearing from NK soon too.

This was inevitable. Sooner or later China needs to realize that it cannot bully the entire region. The US is simply drawing that line more clearly.

Do keep in mind, this is not just about Japan. The Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan are all experiencing similar issues today.

This is before you talk about expanding authority and pressure in Central Asia and on China's land borders. And before we talk about China's increased repression of internal populations by the majority Han.

China remains a repressive, draconian state. Combined with her horrific environmental record, growing HIV and AIDs issues, simmering political upheaval amongst the poor and labor classes, this is a mess on the brink of exploding. Much of her nationalist nonsense is simply deployed to assure that her population remains distracted and their anger focused abroad rather than where it really belongs, focused on the corrupt and incompetent leadership at home.

The US is engaged in a “pivot” to Asia after years of conflict in Iraq and Afghanistan

And if the US rely on China to rein in that North Korea, a 1% reigional powershe is telling China her mighty 'PIVOT' ANTAGONISM is a valid statement.....was that a bit over irrational! Or he is mentioning flying a BS bomber along China's coast?

In these months and months of disputes, I have not seen any moves by China to invade the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands. America understandably have to make certain China don't make any rash moves and it is only arm chair warriors who think China is that foolish to do so. What? Upset everything gained just for that pile of rocks?

So America got to say her piece, great job, China have no problem with that as long as US don't make foolish moves like making a military exercise right off the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands. See, US is wise to make the joint military exercise to defend the islands in a simulation planned for June off San Diego, not even off Japan's coastlines. Japan should foot the bill as Uncle Sam is broke! Nothing to get excited about. Just business as usual.

Meanwhile Japan gotta reign in her nationalists including hosing them if they try to put on another show circling the islands.

"To the naive PRC officials they interpet this statement as,"It's okay PRC we will do nothing, please invade whatever you want."

I think the general's statement couldn't be clearer and the "naive" Chinese government knows exactly what he's saying.

I know Chinese paid commie posters will he in here so can you answer a question for me? I've always wondered if when you are in brainwashing school if they tell you that China beat Japan in WW2?

The common term for that is "normal country"

Normal? If what you consider the rest of the world to be "normal" in terms of military power and how it's been used since the end of WWII I don't think "normal" is something to be proud of nor something any country should strive for.

For instance, if you are using the US or China as being the blueprint for "normal" then I suggest that Japan NEVER become "normal".

i'll believe it when the U.S. plants an aircraft carrier off the senkakus.

How about...quite supporting the Chinese economy. The Chinese have been and are continuing to be regionally oppressive. Be Country Of Origin conseus. Make attempts to buy non-Chinese products. This will certainly affect their economy and global attitude.

Normal? If what you consider the rest of the world to be "normal" in terms of military power and how it's been used since the end of WWII I don't think "normal" is something to be proud of nor something any country should strive for.

No. It's the right of individual or collective defense guaranteed by U.N. Charter. You should read it sometime.

No. It's the right of individual or collective defense guaranteed by U.N. Charter. You should read it sometime.

You got it. Defense not offense. While the constitution needs tweaking for Japan to legally be able to come to the aid of it's allies, it does not need an offensive capability, other than to potentially have to retake it's own territory, if the need ever arise, but otherwise the JIETAI as it is serves it's needs and purposes.

You got it. Defense not offense. While the constitution needs tweaking for Japan to legally be able to come to the aid of it's allies, it does not need an offensive capability, other than to potentially have to retake it's own territory, if the need ever arise, but otherwise the JIETAI as it is serves it's needs and purposes.

No. It's also called military to have the ability to launch offensive strike in order to defend herself from preemptive attack.

Yubaru said: You THINK that having nuclear weapons is something Japan should strive for?

Well, Yes... I do think so.

A new Cold War in Asia is inevitable. It's starting already. Open your eyes my naive little buddy! I'd rather have a New Cold War coming from a position of strength than to have bullies push me around and know I just have to take it because I can't effectively defend myself or strike first before they strike me.

You ain't Japanese? Understood, and I hope you AIN'T teaching English either. LOL!!

Feel free to rip the USA as much as you like. Lot's of USA haters around the world, until they need something from them! And just for your own peace of mind, I AIN'T American. LOL!

No. It's also called military to have the ability to launch offensive strike in order to defend herself from preemptive attack.

You are pulling at straws here. Japan's location precludes this need. Any armed incursion into Japanese territory would fall within the guidelines of defending itself.

Taking your argument a step further, it would then be justifiable for Japan to attack NK for "testing" it's missiles because of the "potential" danger to Japanese people.

Taking your argument a step further, it would then be justifiable for Japan to attack NK for "testing" it's missiles because of the "potential" danger to Japanese people.

How about "not testing" with direction pointed straight at Tokyo with fueling almost complete?

@Yubaru said: Taking your argument a step further, it would then be justifiable for Japan to attack NK for "testing" it's missiles because of the "potential" danger to Japanese people.

EXACTLY! NK presents a clear and resent danger and should be taken out sooner than later before they Actually have Nukes that they can effectively use which isn't the case according to USA Intelligence. Yubaru..with all due respect, you need to grow a pair, man!

Just a thought: is it possible this is true? 'Keep your friends close and your enemies closer'

So by this logic US don't view Japan as a real friend, but an enemy that need to be 'tamed'

US & China are like custodians of peace in the Pacific region much to the disbelief of many! You just don't know what is spoken behind close doors.

YubaruApr. 25, 2013 - 07:50AM JST All of this rhetoric is playing right into Abe's hands with regards to changing the constitution and making the JIETAI a >formal military force.

Something that Japan should have done before the world caught on that China's "rise" wasn't necessarily "peaceful".

“In the case of Japan, I was careful to remind them (China’s senior leaders) that the U.S. has certain treaty obligations with Japan, that we would honor,”

Dont be silly. These americans burp caviar now, but when china decide sell their securities of the U.S. public debt or point their missiles to washington,they will leave the Japan a “French leave”.

fdsApr. 25, 2013 - 09:01AM JST i'll believe it when the U.S. plants an aircraft carrier off the senkakus

You can bet that will happen if the Chinese PLA Navy replaces the para-military Maritime Surveillance Agency vessels.

Otago1000Apr. 25, 2013 - 08:24AM JST And if the US rely on China to rein in that North Korea,

The US is telling China that if they don't rein in NK we will be forced to take action. China appears to have gotten the message.

EXACTLY! NK presents a clear and resent danger and should be taken out sooner than later before they Actually have Nukes that they can effectively use which isn't the case according to USA Intelligence. Yubaru..with all due respect, you need to grow a pair, man!

Jeez say this to the Chinese who have nukes and are probably pointed at Japan already. So because it's a piss-ant country like NK Japan should grow a pair and slam the hell out of them, but when it's big brother neighbor China has potentially the same thing going on you'd start WWIII just to prove your manhood?

Ever hear of diplomacy? Things are not so bad that they can't be discussed like adults right now. Oh wait, the adults left the room, maybe things are that bad......

How about "not testing" with direction pointed straight at Tokyo with fueling almost complete?

That's what Aegis and PAC 3 are for.

I think that this sill island dispute could easily turn into a shooting match.

It was reported that Dempsey said that a fair share of the questions that were discussed in his meetings with the senior leaders had to do with US rebalance to the PACIFIC and seeking GREATER CLARITY on what US meant by it. Although Dempsey commented publicly to China that US committed to defend Japan which is not recent news under the Defense Treaty between Japan and US which China already knew, what is not clear the unreported issues being discussed between both sides.

@ Yubaru said: Jeez say this to the Chinese who have nukes and are probably pointed at Japan already. So because it's a piss-ant country like NK Japan should grow a pair and slam the hell out of them, but when it's big brother neighbor China has potentially the same thing going on you'd start WWIII just to prove your manhood?

Ever hear of diplomacy? Things are not so bad that they can't be discussed like adults right now. Oh wait, the adults left the room, maybe things are that bad......

That's the entire purpose of MAD my dear pacifist friend. China won't do anything because the USA has Japan's back. It's give and take on the little things.

The Cuban missile Crisis perfect example of what's happening now in the Senkaku Islands. The Soviets didn't have the fire power to take on the USA back in 62. Just like the Chinese don't have it now to take on Japan and the USA if they were to invade, take out NK. China gives the Japanese the Senkaku's and the USA makes it up to them in some other way...aka..not blowing them off the map!

Diplomacy is for countries who don't have the kahunas to back up what they Diplomacize (my own word) with military action due to lack of military prowess and pacifist ideas like the world is all sunshine and roses.

Nice talking with ya Yubaru!

US & China are like custodians of peace in the Pacific region much to the disbelief of many!

I could not stop laughing - China being a custodian of peace in the Pacific is one of the funniest statements I have read so far. ... Ha ha ha. Do you really believe it yourself? Or is it simply your dislike (mildly put) for Japan inspiring you to make up stories?

Thank you for the good laugh anyway!

He huffed and he puffed, and he said "Can we negotiate?" What a farce.

It is good that US sends someone so high up to China to explain US position. China will never start a war. However if Japan starts it, the US will have a hard time explaining to her people why US will go to war over some rocks. Probably, China will lose the war. But China and NK will wipe out Japan first!

@RedcliffApr. 25, 2013 - 12:08PM JST @JaneM

It was reported that Dempsey said that a fair share of the questions that were discussed in his meetings with the senior leaders had to do with US rebalance to the PACIFIC and seeking GREATER CLARITY on what US meant by it. Although Dempsey commented publicly to China that US committed to defend Japan which is not recent news under the Defense Treaty between Japan and US which China already knew, what is not clear the unreported issues being discussed between both sides.

Hi Redcliff, great to see you here! Politics make strange bedfellows, so I opine US & China make plan behind close doors to 'cage' Japan even while talking nice about Japan in public. US knows Japan history, we learn Pearl Harbor very well and we don't forget what a desperate nation can do!

Obviously JaneM had not been deep into political maneuveurings so I think she is a student of politics, and is going to be surprised!

First of all, China is not dumb and they are handling this issue much better than most people can think of. China is not affected much economically by this issue compare to Japan since the conflict started last year and there's hardly any much involvement from the international community. It's pretty much between Japan and China.

China is maintaining the status quo very carefully which Japan cannot do much about it. Action speaks louder than words, under control? Try building something on those islands or take down those Chinese surveillance ships for intrusion instead of just reporting it over and over again.

The U.S has mentioned it is not siding anyone on the dispute and I do not think they would protect Japan if the later made a mistake by altering the current status quo through heavy offensive means but of course Japan know this and would not allow China to take it as an excuse to advance their move which is why they do not allow even their own people to land or build anything on those islands.

Right now it's all about looking for "reasons" to pursue their goal, China is waiting for Japan's mistake, Japan is waiting for China's mistake. In my opinion China is winning this very slowly through economic means and Japan need to do the similar thing by improving their economy as soon as possible before China become too strong to handle with.

@Asian2013Apr. 25, 2013 - 01:11PM JST

It is good that US sends someone so high up to China to explain US position. China will never start a war. However if Japan starts it, the US will have a hard time explaining to her people why US will go to war over some rocks. Probably, China will lose the war. But China and NK will wipe out Japan first!

The way I see it, if Japan miscalculate, US will drop her like a hot potato! America must be trying very hard to wiggle out of this Senkaku/Diaoyu Island disputes because it is a very murky area to use Security Treaty to protect Japan. Basically US is saying since it is given to Japan to administer, but not sovereignty, US is forced to defend the islands if attacked by China, but on the other hand if Japan instigate/inflame the situation, US will cancel that obligation since these islands are not sovereign like Tokyo or any other Japanese mainland islands.This helps explain why Tokyo dare not allow the Japanese nationalist boats to ever touch Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands. If J Govt let them land on the islands and China invade any of the islands, US will not be able to explain to her citizens why it is necessary to defend Japan from 'invasion' when it is Japan who provoke China to invade later on.

People have to remember Vietnam War where violent protests caused change in governments in the US. For this reason POTUS Obama will NEVER defend Japan once Japan is clearly identified as the instigator by allowing her nationalists to land.

The U.S has mentioned it is not siding anyone on the dispute

The U.S. has said it's not siding with anyone in terms of adjudicating the dispute, but it is siding with Japan in terms of preventing China from "adjudicating" it militarily.

Tony Ew: This helps explain why Tokyo dare not allow the Japanese nationalist boats to ever touch Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands. If J Govt let them land on the islands and China invade any of the islands, US will not be able to explain to her citizens why it is necessary to defend Japan from 'invasion' when it is Japan who provoke China to invade later on.

This statement (among others) went into the laughable column.

A Chinese invasion of the Senkaku islands would be looked at as a . . . Chinese invasion. See, that wasn't so difficult.

Asian2013: However if Japan starts it, the US will have a hard time explaining to her people why US will go to war over some rocks. Probably, China will lose the war. But China and NK will wipe out Japan first!

Quite bold and optimistic statements when you probably would never feel the pain of war. If you are in the danger zone, the statements are suicidal. But at least you have your pride.

The nuclear power plant melt down and the Tohoku earthquakes were and are real threats in Japan, they are the only thing I feel that concerned about living in Tokyo. They also make it hard to take seriously the impetuous remarks from China and their mouthpieces.

China will not invade Diaoyu. If Japan lands citizens, then China can also land citizens. Let the citizens fight on the islands or maybe co.exist peacefully. China will not allow the US to find an excuse to interfere. China can always play for time. If nothing happens in the next 5 years, the military equation will be very different. Japan has to do something rash first as time is not on her side!

Japan will continue hiding behind the protection of the u.s. well.. because basically the u.s. owns japan. and the japanese like yuriotani are sheep and like to complain one minute about the u.s. being a presence in jpan, and then praise the u.s.next minute and say that the u.s. will help us in our cause. Sounds like pussy cat sheeple to me.

Jane I could not stop laughing - China being a custodian of peace in the Pacific is one of the funniest statements I have read so far. ... Ha ha ha

How many wars&invasions were started by China in last 50 years ... by US ? real funny....

How many wars&invasions were started by China in last 50 years ... by US ? real funny...

How many were started by the US in the last 50 years in the Pacific? The same number as China!

Asian2013, the islands are under Japanese control, now. They have been under Japanese control ever since Okinawa was returned to Japan in 1972. Japnese government officials can land on the islands as they like. It seems Chinese do not know these facts.

How many wars&invasions were started by China in last 50 years ... by US ? real funny....

I did not comment on the USA so do not shift the point, Olegek. The point is China and, if I follow your logic, how many wars has Japan started in the last 50 years? For how many years has it had its pacifist constitution? How many billions of yen has Japan provided in compensations and financial support for the development of its neighbors and other countries in Asia? How many countries' territories have been claimed and ivaded by China in the last several years on the basis that at some point in the ancient past those territories have belonged to China?

So saying that the PRC is a custodian of peace in the region is at least not true, honestly, it is laughable. I could not help thinking that next the Chinese government will be called "paragon of virtue."

Diplomacy is for countries who don't have the kahunas to back up what they Diplomacize (my own word) with military action due to lack of military prowess and pacifist ideas.....

Really? What country starts wars because they CAN"T Diplomacize?

@ Tony Ew

"Obviously JaneM had not been deep into political maneuveurings, so I think she is a student of politics and she is going to be surprised".

I read your suspicion and your alternate view I am also a bit surprised at Dempsey's comment in my earlier post and judging from previous John Kerry's recent visit to China and reported his visit by China's media I do sense a slight change in tone and posture of US with China. Others Japanese media like Japan Daily Press also reported John Kerry's visit but without the intense fever of the "We are all for Japan" and defend to the end on our commitment. Whether there is a change in the US strategy only the US and China knows.

@Yubaru: You misunderstood my quote my curious and furry friend. It means that countries that don't have the military might to defend themselves or take out an aggressor before they themselves are taken out, resort to diplomacy at all costs even after they have been kicked in the teeth.

It's like the kid on the school ground getting pummeled by the bully and his only response is: 'Hey, can we talk this out?' when in fact he should be fighting back or even better, kick the bully in the gonads before the bully comes after him. ERGO....Take out the impending threat before it REALLY becomes a threat.

Here are the facts, the North Koreans have threatened to Nuke Tokyo. I call that a real threat and the NK's should be taken out before they try to act on that threat.

Get the point?????

'ERGO....Take out the impending threat before it REALLY becomes a threat.'

That's why the Japanese need a military with first strike capabilities.

Be like Israel, take out the threats before they become reality!

This whole situation is theatre for the masses, the Chinese government distract their population from real domestic problems and the current Japanese government use it as an excuse to change the constitution (dont worry about article 9, worry about all the other changes they want to make slashing personal freedom for Japanese citizens ).

The problem is this theater may accidentally spill over into a real conflict. War is not a soccer match and some people need to grow up and realise that. The fact is China is a relatively well functioning part of the developed world, and a vital part, these conflicts over a few rocks on the sea are ridiculous. The real threats in the world are from a handful of tin pot countries run by clerics or criminal families (is there a difference?), as well as corrupted governments acting for themselves and corporate interests and attempting to limit individual freedoms and finally various disgruntled individuals and groups who can cause a lot of trouble by using various modern technologies which let them punch fast above their weight.

@CH3CHO: They have been under Japanese control ever since Okinawa was returned to Japan in 1972

NO!! Those Diayou islands(Senkaku) were stolen , they were not part of Okinawa prefecture! Nixon formed a chain of islands as front line from Hokaiddo to Okinawa, Taiwan and the Phillipines! Those Diayou islands were drawn into Japan's administration in 1971, three years after the oil deposit was discovered! There was US/japan stolen Chinese island and Dempsey came to China is to defend that collaborations and thefting! Because America feels interest with the deposit under the sea bed as well! Just like Iraq war is for oil!

Otago1000

@CH3CHO: They have been under Japanese control ever since Okinawa was returned to Japan in 1972

NO!! Those Diayou islands(Senkaku) were stolen

So, you admit that they are physically under Japanese control.

China cannot take those islands by building military power. However, China has fair chance if it brings the case to International Court of Justice, as PM Noda suggested last year. Choose wisely.

I fogot to mention. As an extra bonus, Chinese President Xi will be likely to receive Nobel Peace Prize, if the case is settle through ICJ, in addition to receiveing the islands.

I fogot to mention. As an extra bonus, Chinese President Xi will be likely to receive Nobel Peace Prize, if the case is settle through ICJ, in addition to receiveing the islands.

The Nobel Peace Prize is meaningless, well it used to have meaning, until some guy won it for just getting elected into office.

Oh and the Chinese Pres wouldn't win it, unless he concedes to Japanese sovereignty over the islands.

Jane I did not comment on the USA so do not shift the point, Olegek. The point is China and

1 So at least none of them is custodian of peace ? Not US not PRC ? I'm right ?

2 We always must compare - Cognition comes through comparison.....

how many wars has Japan started in the last 50 years?

After 1945 Japan has not Foreign Policy ...

NO!! Those Diayou islands(Senkaku) were stolen , they were not part of Okinawa prefecture! Nixon formed a chain of islands as front line from Hokaiddo to Okinawa, Taiwan and the Phillipines! Those Diayou islands were drawn into Japan's administration in 1971, three years after the oil deposit was discovered!

The Senkaku islands were claimed by Japan in the 1880s and incorporated under Okinawa prefecture. Before then, they belonged to no nation. You cannot steal an island that doesn't belong to anyone.

@ Upgrayedd

" The Senkaku Islands were claimed by Japan in the 1880s and incorporated under the Okinawa prefecture. Before then, they belong to no nation. You cannot steal an Island that doesn't belong to anyone".

From my reading of a report by the Congress Research Services of the United State.it was noted that the Island was granted by the Empress Dowager Cixi of the Qing Dynasty to her Chief Minister of the Court Sheng XuanHuai in 1883. Sheng XuanHaui frequent the Island to collect Herbs to treat High Blood Pressure. In 1894 Tatsushiro Koga send an application for a leasehold to the local prefecture but was turned down by the Prefecture because it was not clear whether the Island belongs to Japan Empire.

From the CRS it looks like the Island belongs to China as recorded by the Qing Dynasty and before it. Thus if the Island already has an owner one can only obtain it by stealing it.

General Dempsey forgot that PRC and ROC ships come and go as they please since 1960s. This year is 2013. What took it so long for US for blocking those ships? Very unlikely PRC or ROC will make first move. However when they have been intimidated, the likely first response will be cutting off his pay check.

He should research where did his pay check come from?

Asian2013Apr. 25, 2013 - 01:11PM JST It is good that US sends someone so high up to China to explain US position. China will never start a war. However if >Japan starts it,

Japan isn't going to START any war. They are prohibited by their own constitution. I wish China had the same.

OctagonApr. 25, 2013 - 08:39PM JST General Dempsey forgot that PRC and ROC ships come and go as they please since 1960s.

Fishing boats are not the same as government para-military ships en masse with a deliberate goal of supporting a territorial expansion agenda..

This year is 2013. What >took it so long for US for blocking those ships? Very unlikely PRC or ROC will make first >move.

ROC is interested in natural resources, ie; fishing rights and are negotiating with Japan. China s interested in taking territory for the military expansion. ROC is not an aggressor like PRC.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State William Burns, in urging Japan and China to act in a sound and constructive manner, is really saying "You two pixies knock it off!

Redcliff;

The Congressional Research Report includes that statement as part of "China's claim", not as anything the United States recognizes. The full text is:

"In 1893, the Dowager Empress of China, Cixi, made a grant of the islands to Sheng Xuanhuai, head of the Imperial Household, who collected medical herbs on them. However, although there are claims that Chinese fishermen used the islands as places of temporary shelter and repair, China never established a permanent settlement of civilians or military personnel on the islands, and apparently did not maintain permanent naval forces in adjacent waters."

The same reports states: "China considers the islands to be part of Taiwan, over which it claims sovereignty." This is interesting considering that Taiwan (ROC) itself does not consider itself part of China(PRC).

From my (european) point of view... Good to hear that America won't let Japan down in this case. Now, go home, China...

@RedcliffApr. 25, 2013 - 03:58PM JST

@Asian2013Apr. 25, 2013 - 02:37PM JST

China will not invade Diaoyu. If Japan lands citizens, then China can also land citizens. Let the citizens fight on the islands or maybe co.exist peacefully.

Asian2013, very thoughtful input, hope the PRC govt is listening, and I hope if any Japanese civilians land on the islands, Chinese should send civilians too, bring in Kung Fu Fighting vs Karate, but first the Japanese got to thank the Okinawans for teaching them how to fight Karate!

@ Tony Ew

"Obviously JaneM had not been deep into political maneuveurings, so I think she is a student of politics and she is going to be surprised".

I read your suspicion and your alternate view I am also a bit surprised at Dempsey's comment in my earlier post and judging from previous John Kerry's recent visit to China and reported his visit by China's media I do sense a slight change in tone and posture of US with China. Others Japanese media like Japan Daily Press also reported John Kerry's visit but without the intense fever of the "We are all for Japan" and defend to the end on our commitment. Whether there is a change in the US strategy only the US and China knows.

Politics make strange bedfellows. Nixon goes to China in 1972 remember? Sworn enemies between Communist PRC and Democratic USA. People who don't think US and China have a plan to 'cage' Japan is just not willing to think out of the box. Sorry Japan, you are the black sheep in Asia and you need to be 'caged', especially if Abe succeed in changing the Constitution. I am really happy US have Kerry as Secretary of State. I expect his vast experience and intellect enables him to give POTUS a finely tuned advice to keep peace in Asia.

Tony EwApr. 25, 2013 - 11:03PM JST Politics make strange bedfellows. Nixon goes to China in 1972 remember? Sworn enemies between Communist PRC >and Democratic USA. People who don't think US and China have a plan to 'cage' Japan is just not willing to think out >of the box. Sorry Japan, you are the black sheep in Asia and you need to be 'caged', especially if Abe succeed in >changing the Constitution. I am really happy US have Kerry as Secretary of State. I expect his vast experience and I>ntellect enables him to give POTUS a finely tuned advice to keep peace in Asia.

Thank you Tony Ew for your parallel universe fantasy. Nixon went to China in 72 because our "sworn enemy" at the time was the USSR. China was a bacxkwards hole in the ground in need of plumbing. In fact, PM Tanaka went to China in 72 as well and met with Mao Tse Ting and Chou En Lai, signing the Sino-Japanese Treaty of Friendship, settling all WWII matter, and it was even reaffirmed in 1978. Appears China's words have little credibility, even treaties. The only black sheep in Asia, short of the North Korean basket case, is China, the one nations considered a threat by all of Asia. Sorry Tony Ew but that's reality. Japan changing their constitution is supported by the US ands now other Asian countries that were former victims of Japan in WWII. What does that tell you about China's popularity level?

Japanese nationalists sent 9 ships to the area, China responded by sending 8 ships. That was a normal response by China when under threat and provocation. But it doesn’t mean that China would take over the islands right now, the time is not ripe as yet. China is very patient; it will keep weakening what so called “effective” controls of the islands. Time is on China’s side, and Abe knows this, that’s why there are constant harassing and provoking words and actions from Japan while China just watched and reacted to the situation. The US sent Kerry and Dempsey to China they didn’t just talk about N. Korea. I agree with Tony and other posters here that the US seems to bend towards China more. Dempsey’s statement did not cause much of a stir in China as it used to be. Japan is being used right now by the US. The US is poised to benefit more from TPP when Japan opened up its market for the US goods. We all know that Abe seemed to think that Japan can use TPP to please the US knowing full well that it would cause major disruptions in its domestic markets. But Abe is only buying time because TPP will not be implemented for quite some time, so in the mean while Abe can ask the US to show some support for Japan. But that support seems to be less and less meaningful. For some of you may not know, China is now the largest trading partner to many countries surpassing the US by a long range. More and more countries now understand that they can trust China because China doesn’t interfere in other country’s internal affairs or invade other country for no reason. China always keeps its words unlike Japan its official words can be denied or changed at any time. The old negative thinking about China is no longer true or appropriate.

@flowers

More and more countries now understand that they can trust China because China doesn’t interfere in other country’s internal affairs or invade other country for no reason. China always keeps its words unlike Japan its official words can be denied or changed at any time. The old negative thinking about China is no longer true or appropriate.

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a New China that is going to be more and more understood as time goes by. Meanwhile Japan continue to embarrass herself with all the flip flops and intransigence. The Asian region will be one big happy trading bloc and nobody want to get into war and they know China is not going to do any land grab as it make no sense in her big plan to uplift the country from poverty.

One point of note that US also seems to understand now is China is a REACTING country vs Japan which historically and even now is an ACTION oriented FIRST CAUSE troublemaker, instigator whatever you call it, oops, AGGRESSOR is a more appropriate word.

For this reason alone, China will be more and more embraced warmly by her neighbors.You don't hear any more squeaks from Philippines or Vietnam because they know China is not aggressive. To these misbehaving countries in China's eyes, she just put her foot down and that's it. Uneasy balance, but they learn to accept China AS IS with a little blemish. They have no appetite to take on China militarily.

America will continue to defend Japan per Security Treaty but only for mainland Japan and the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands is CONDITIONAL depending on how events play out as I posted before ie if Japan is the instigator/aggressor, US will find a way to wiggle out of this adminstered disputed islands which is not sovereign to Japan.

@OssanAmerica

Japan changing their constitution is supported by the US ands now other Asian countries that were former victims of Japan in WWII.

Give proof, not just hearsay, list all Asian countries if you can. US is about to defend Japan from far far behind, second tier defense should Japan change her Constitution. If it come to pass, I think US is taking the right position to get rid of a tiresome ally. The moment Japan is seen jerking US around in TPP, US can see this is an intransigent country that erect subtle trade barriers. You should know better as an American, how come Japan have such a huge trade surplus with US? Your Japanese friend is abusing American's friendship. Go ask Detroit, the beef industry, yes that special rice exception in any TPP I suppose !

Gen Dempsey is just restating the obvious, old news, so what else is new?

Tony Ew

Thanks for your interesting feedback.

I guess General Dempsey should learn more about The Art of fighting without fighting. Late Bruce demonstrated how to sink the small boat with a bully boy without a single punch in the Enter the Dragon.

I am absoultely sure that PRC will never make a first strike. However if it has been humilated in own backyard, the sky is the limit for their unleasing their anger and actions. It is understanable that it was a sick man of Asia and humilated and bullied by big boys.

That sick man is no longer sick and frail!

@Flyfalcon

While Gen Dempsey is talking, China is commissioning newer stealth frigates that can take on Japan's navy without problem. Now it will be quality vs quality forever ensuring Japan dare not try to pull another stunt. By the end of this year there will be about a dozen more of such stealthy frigates. They will be going to the Pacific for exercise and it will be interesting to see if Japan dare to pull another shennanigan by stalking Chinese navy within a mile in the last radar lock setup. I bet this time Gen Dempsey will advise Japan to stay out of sight!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Type_056_corvette

China has NOTHING on its side, not time not talk not nothing. It is a silly bully and a paper tiger roaring at the moon. I am amazed to see appologists for Chinese aggression still trying to defend the indefensible. China has NO claim on the islands, they belong to Japan period. No debate, no question, no chance of a sudden shift or change, they ARE JAPANESE now and for as long as Japan wants to hold them. Get the message and get real and get over it.

Sometimes you win and sometimes you lose, and in this case, China lost this territory and also has alerted the world to its attempt to grab territory all over the Pacific. In a way every step China takes to try to bully its way to some kind of "victory" here, takes them farther from any role as a leading world power. they are revealed to be a 19th century war lord in modern dress..and with little more than aggression to show for it all.

Time for sanity to spread hopefully. I sure am tired of seeing over and over empty claims being waved as valid when there is just nothing at all for China to claim or defend, they have a whole huge country and thousands of miles of other borders, let them pay attention to all of that and let go of this petty attempt to grab more just to prove they can.

Japan has acted and continues to act with great poise and restraint. Well done.

ChrisGerSan is quite correct. China has to win the Diaoyus back!

One has to raise the question why Jpn was not 'normal country' in the first place ?

Tony EwApr. 26, 2013 - 10:53AM JST @OssanAmerica "Japan changing their constitution is supported by the US ands now other Asian countries that were former victims of Japan in WWII.

Give proof, not just hearsay, list all Asian countries if you can. US is about to defend Japan from far far behind, >second tier defense should Japan change her Constitution. If it come to pass, I think US is taking the right position to >get rid of a tiresome ally. The moment Japan is seen jerking US around in TPP, US can see this is an intransigent >country that erect subtle trade barriers. You should know better as an American, how come Japan have such a huge >trade surplus with US? Your Japanese friend is abusing American's friendship. Go ask Detroit, the beef industry, yes >that special rice exception in any TPP I suppose ! Gen Dempsey is just restating the obvious, old news, so what else is new?

I'm sorry but the US-Japan Mutual Defense Treaty has been in effect since 1960. And China has been told that they will face the United States if they start a war. These are facts that are on all the news sites including the JT articles. Japan is a US ally, their SDF is closely integrated with US Forces and we share many of the bases as well as intelligence. All of your arguments are really silly in light of reality. Why should the US be concerned about anally having a trade surplus when China has a surplus but they put heir money into military expansion and declare their intent to replace the US as the dominant strategic power in the Pacific? Japan is hardly a "tiresome ally" as much as you would like it to be, and remains the cornerstone of our strategic policy in Asia. As for TPP it is going to get done, and China isn't invited.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe vowed Tuesday to “expel by force” any Chinese landing on the islands ...

Does that mean Abe would act unilaterally to do so if Chinese troops land on the island? Is he only talking about a civilian landing of demonstrators?

I could imagine at some point in the future, maybe around a major Chinese economic recession, some element of the Chinese military sneaking some troops onto the island, hoping that Japan would bomb and kill them all, providing China with a public mandate for war, and allowing the military to override the Chinese Central Standing Committee.

On the other hand such a scenario is most unlikely on Yonaguni, the next in line after Senkaku's, which has much longer and stronger historical ties to Japan. That's why I think it's wiser for Japan to work on a diplomatic solution involving compromise on Senkakus. There is nothing dishonorable about being strategic in protecting ones country.