Japan expresses its concerns to China, Russia over joint patrolling in Asia Pacific region

On Sunday, Japan expressed its concerns to Russia and China over joint patrolling by ir air forces in Asia Pacific region. Japanese foreign minister Yoshimasa Hayashi stated that concerns have been conveyed to both countries about ir actions via diplomatic channels. "As previously, we raised our apprehensions from perspective of regional security in Asia Pacific region," he was quoted as saying by news agency Sputnik. According to Russian Defense Ministry, Russian and Chinese militaries conducted third combined air patrolling in Asia-Pacific using strategic bombers on Friday, November 19. 

Meanwhile, Chinese Defence Ministry stated that Beijing sent two H-6K aircraft to form a combined formation with two Russian Tu-95MC aircraft over Sea of Japan and East China Sea. aircraft strictly followed international law during patrol and did not breach airspace of any countries, ded ministry. It furr informed that this was third coordinated strategic air patrol between Chinese and Russian armed forces. It aims to strengn China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination in new era, improve strategic coordination and joint operational capabilities, and jointly maintain global strategic stability. 

Chinese-Russian navies also conduct ir first-ever maritime patrol

Last month, Chinese and Russian navies also conducted ir first-ever maritime patrol under 'Maritime Interaction-2021.' It was conducted in Western Pacific waters, with a total of 10 warships from Russian Pacific Fleet and six carrier-based helicopters participating in military drill in Sea of Japan and East China Sea, reported ANI. joint military exercise included tactical naval manoeuvring, anti-mine detachment support, and conducted artillery fire at sea targets, with actual use of weaponry. warships from navies of both countries sailed through Tsugaru Strait separating Japan's main island and its norrn island of Hokkaido.

On November 12, Japanese foreign minister Hayashi stated that country intends to resolve ownership dispute over four islands: Kunashir, Iturup, Shikotan, and Habomai. Hayashi stated that following discussions, y would sign a peace treaty with Russia, reported ANI. He went on to say that y will work to resolve issues and not shift responsibility to future generations. Hayashi stated at a press conference that country wants to resolve issues with Russia. He also stated that y aim to continue drafting a peace treaty based on two countries' current accords.

(With inputs from ANI)

Image: AP