Beijing ramps up its defense response in the skies over the East China Sea after Tokyo lodged a protest over abnormally close approaches. On Sunday, Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Jiang Bin dismissed the claims, describing Beijing's response as entirely legitimate, reasonable and professional.
Jiang Bin said a Japan Air Self-Defense Force intelligence-gathering plane conducted repeated close-in surveillance inside the air defense identification zone maintained by the Chinese mainland. He added that Chinese aircraft legally identified, tracked and monitored the Japanese plane.
The spokesperson warned that persistent close-in reconnaissance and harassment by Japanese vessels and aircraft increase maritime and air security risks between the two neighbours. He urged Tokyo to work with Beijing to foster an atmosphere conducive to the stable development of bilateral ties.
For young global citizens, this exchange underscores how airspace protocols can become flashpoints in international relations. Clear communication and shared safety norms will be key to preventing unintended escalations as regional powers expand aerial operations.
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China defends military aircraft approach after Japan complaint
cgtn.com
