In southern Japan, a local council has given the green light to a proposal to rename an area that includes the Senkaku Islands. The new name will be Tonoshiro Senkaku, replacing the previous name, Tonoshiro. It’s important to note that these islands are a source of dispute between Japan, China (where they are known as Diaoyu), and Taiwan (referred to as Tiaoyutai).
About Senkaku Island
The Senkaku Island dispute concerns a territorial dispute over a group of uninhabited islands known as:
- Senkaku Islands in Japan,
- Diaoyu Islands in China, and
- Tiaoyutai Islands in Taiwan.
Both Japan and China claim ownership of these islands.
Location: Eight uninhabited islands lie in the East China Sea. They have a total area of about 7 sq km and lie northeast of Taiwan.
Strategic Importance: Islands are close to strategically important shipping lanes, offer rich fishing grounds and are thought to contain oil deposits.
Senkaku Island Dispute
Japan’s Claim:
- After World War II, Japan renounced claims to a number of territories and islands including Taiwan in the 1951 Treaty of San Francisco.
- But under the treaty, the Nansei Shoto islands came under USA trusteeship and were then returned to Japan in 1971.
- Japan says that Senkaku islands are part of the Nansei Shoto islands and hence they also belong to Japan.
- Besides, China raised no objections to the San Francisco deal.
- Only since the 1970s, when the issue of oil resources in the area emerged, Chinese and Taiwanese authorities began pressing their claims.
China’s Claim:
- These Islands have been part of its territory since ancient times, serving as important fishing grounds administered by the province of Taiwan.
- When Taiwan was returned in the Treaty of San Francisco, China said the islands – as part of it – should also have been returned.
Significance for India
- After the tense clash between Indian and Chinese troops in the Galwan Valley, Japan’s recent developments are worth noting.
- Considering the strong economic ties between India and Japan, it’s crucial for India to make thoughtful decisions.
- Supporting Japan’s move could enhance India’s diplomatic stance regarding the Galwan Valley issue.
- It’s important to recognize Taiwan’s support for India in the Galwan Valley dispute, despite its disagreement with Japan’s actions.
- China has been boosting its naval strength in the Indian Ocean, and Japan’s move provides India with an opportunity for a strategic advantage in the region.
Read Also: Islands in India
