It is a pity that in the 40th year after diplomatic ties between Japan and China were normalized the relationship between the two countries has taken a turn for the worse, with Shintaro Ishihara, the governor of Tokyo, and Toru Hashimoto, the governor of Osaka, trying to use the anti-foreign nationalism that is deeply rooted among the Japanese people for their own political aims.

Politicians who genuinely want the best for their country and people do not create unnecessary friction, whether in domestic or international matters, and demonstrate leadership by offering solutions to any problems that might arise. In this sense, the Ishihara style of politics is dictatorial, not democratic. Now, more than ever, Chinese and Japanese politicians and people must work together to find common points of view and effective methods to solve problems.

The proposal to purchase the Diaoyu Islands is not supported by a large number of Japanese citizens, but there certainly exists a small group of people that supports the idea. The territorial rights claimed by both countries are a result of historical circumstances. Attempting to unilaterally solve that problem with money will only further complicate the situation. It is essential that both countries now make efforts to find a peaceful method to solve the problem.