Have you heard about a big event lately? The old neighbors of China and Japan seem to be making new moves again. No, the Japanese government recently extended an olive branch to the Chinese People's Liberation Army, inviting them to visit some super-sensitive military facilities, including bases and manufacturing plants for F-35 fighter jets.
If this thing had been placed in the past, it would have been unimaginable, but now, it has just happened, and people can't help but wonder, what is the big article behind this?
First of all, let's talk about this Sino-Japanese military academy-level cadre exchange project, which is an old project with a history of 21 years. Since 2003, officers from both sides have been visiting each other's homes, and so far, more than 400 officers at the rank of general and colonel have participated in such exchanges.
The benefits of this kind of communication are obvious, it allows officers on both sides to get to know each other better, reduce misunderstandings, and avoid unnecessary friction.
However, the project has not been smooth sailing, with two pauses in the middle for various reasons, the most recent of which was only restarted in 2023.
When it comes to the economy, trade between China and Japan is a huge number, reaching more than $360 billion, which is more than double the trade volume between Japan and the United States.
However, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, in his speech to the US Congress, called China the "biggest threat from outside", which sounds a bit contradictory, doesn't it?
However, Japan is also actively promoting its accession to the RCEP and seeking substantive cooperation with China and other Asian countries, which shows that Japan still attaches great importance to its relationship with China economically.
Now, let's talk about the F-35 fighter. This is a big guy, developed by the United States and its allies, and it is a multi-role fighter with stealth capabilities. The Japan Air Self-Defense Force ordered 147 F-35s, of which 38 were assembled domestically by Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.
This is not only a demonstration of Japan's military strength, but also a symbol of Japan's military and technological independence. The invitation to the Chinese delegation may be an attempt at military transparency by Japan, and it may also be an opportunity to demonstrate its military strength to China.
But don't worry, it's not that simple. In this uncertain world, behind every handshake and smile may be a deeper strategic consideration.
Japan's repetition of the "relationship of strategic reciprocity" in the Blue Book of Diplomacy seems to be a gentle call for Sino-Japanese relations. However, it is not known whether this is simply a counterweight to the influence of US financial hegemony or a response to US economic policy.
For example, in January this year, a 180-member delegation of Japanese economic circles visited China, demonstrating the strong desire of Japanese economic circles to restore and strengthen Sino-Japanese economic and trade relations.
In addition, the visit to China by Mizuho Fukushima, leader of Japan's Social Democratic Party, and the issuance of the "Sino-Japanese Pledge of No More War" are also positive manifestations of the easing of Sino-Japanese relations.
Truth be told, though, the truth behind this may be far more complex than we think. In these uncertain times, every move can be a carefully calculated move.
We hope that China-Japan relations can truly usher in spring, but at the same time, we must remain sober and critically examine the truth behind every smile. After all, exchanges between countries are never just a simple handshake and group photo.
What do you have to say about this? Speak freely in the comment area, and we'll see you next time