Chinese scholar says there may be gradual improvement in Japan-China relations soon

Japan Daily Press ^ | 07/16/2013 | John Hofilena

[TexGrill]

Yang Bojiang, deputy director of the Institute of Japanese Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences and one of China’s leading political experts on Japanese affairs says that he is expecting a gradual improvement in bilateral relations between Japan and China after the Japanese Upper House elections this Sunday. Tensions between Asia’s two largest economies have increased over the past 10 months since Japan nationalized a string of uninhabited islands in the East China Sea, and have been worsened by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s nationalistic-leaning political beliefs, but Yang is still positive about an upturn in bilateral relations between both countries.

“It is welcoming for China that there will be political stability,” Yang said, all assuming that Abe’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its junior coalition partner New Komeito will win a majority upcoming elections. Yang also said in a recent interview he doesn’t expect Abe to back down on the sovereignty of the Senkakus, also known as Diaoyus in China. But Yang said that the Japanese prime minister will most likely come under pressure from the private sector and industry lobbies to take a softer stand on the issue “whether he likes it or not.” China still represents a large chunk of Japan’s target market for products and exports, and Yang believes it is this pressure that will ultimately push Abe to negotiations.

[TexGrill]

Global business tip

[rsobin]

Is soon gradual?

[allendale]

China without question is the predominant power in Asia and the Chinese once again view themselves as the “middle kingdom”. All revolves around them and the other countries have a role but that of subservient and supportive auxiliaries. China also bitterly resents when Western countries, especially the United States, interfere or dominate Asian affairs. Japan viewed itself this way after defeating Russia in 1905. This attitude led directly to WWII as Japan sought to rid Asia of Western colonialists and dominance. Asians have always viewed Western interference and dominance as a humiliating infringement.

[Dr.Deth]

I'll believe this when City Wok and City Sushi settle their differences.

[onedoug]

“Ah, Bach.”