Diaoyu impasse calls for new ideas(2)

Trust gov't when detained

Li Yiqiang, secretary-general of the World Chinese Alliance in Defense of the Diaoyu Islands

Our latest landing on the Diaoyu Islands was specifically planned, as August 15 was the date the Japanese forces surrendered to the Allied forces during World War II.

The campaign was a big success. Since it had been made public, the Japanese side had already made preparations. However, we still managed to break through the blockade by dozens of Japanese military vessels and successfully landed on the Diaoyu Islands.

Though Chinese activists were detained, they were released within 48 hours. Credit should be given to the Chinese government, as its efforts were the key to the early release.

After the detention, our alliance made a decision that night that we should trust the government's handling of the issue.

Grass-roots campaigns only play a supporting role in the overall efforts concerning the Diaoyu Islands. It is the government that holds the key to the final solution.

Our activists cannot represent the government. However, we can represent public opinion. This will help us attract more attention across the world.