Tensions between Japan and China are heating up as the two nations are sparring over allegations that a Chinese warship targeted a Japanese vessel earlier this week in the East China Sea.
Earlier today, China's defense ministry denied Japan's claim that the Chinese navy directed its fire-controlled radar on a Japanese destroyer in an altercation that occurred on January 30, China Daily reports. The Chinese defense ministry also claims the Japanese fabricated the allegations to mislead the international public.
"Recently, Japan has repeatedly spread false accusations that have distorted facts and defamed Chinese military's normal combat readiness training," a statement issued by the Chinese Ministry of National Defense said.
"At around 9 a.m. on January 30, a Chinese naval ship found itself closely followed and monitored by JSDF destroyer Yudachi while conducting routine training in relevant waters in the East China Sea; ship-borne radars of the Chinese naval ship kept normal observation and were on alert, and fire-control radar was not used," the statement added.
The Chinese defense ministry's statement goes on to say that Japanese airplanes and warships have been maintaining close surveillance over Chinese air and naval operations in the area, citing such Japanese behavior as the root of the current dispute.
The statement says Japan's allegations are "recklessly" causing tension, adding "China hopes that Japan will take effective measures and stop stirring up tensions in the East China Sea, and stop making irresponsible remarks."
- Contribute to this Story:
- Send us a tip
- Send us a photo or video
- Suggest a correction
