Japan is a peace-lover, really?

The recent 'Fire Power' exercises held by the Japanese military near Mount Fuji are indicative of the trend in the country's security policy.

First, Japan is pledged to strive for ownership of the Diaoyu islands, and has made the relevant preparations. The exercise was based on the idea that "Chinese activities are frequent around the Diaoyu Islands and defense of the Southwest Islands has become an important issue". Japan also announced the three stages of the exercise: the first stage is to deploy its forces; the second stage is to launch an attack; the third stage is to regain the occupied islands. Obviously, Japan is trying to deliver to China the message that Japan has no intention of giving up the Diaoyu islands.

Second, Japan is attempting to build up its military power via strengthening its collective self-defense forces. Japan is deploying large numbers and extensive weaponry in this exercise, including 2300 troops, 80 tanks, and 20 fighters. Japan is showing its hard-line attitude on the Diaoyu island issue.

However, Abe's whole attitude is no more than wishful thinking.

The exercise contradicts the concept of "pacifism" promoted by Japan. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has repeatedly made reference to the concept, declaring that the build-up of Japanese military forces contributes to international peace and stability. However, the goal of the exercise is to "get the Diaoyu islands back", indicating Japan's real intentions. The exercise is more likely to trigger war than promote peace.

In addition, the exercise will certainly arouse further complaints from the Japanese people. Japan is afflicted with economic difficulties. The debt-ridden Japanese government spent 350 million yen on the exercise, resulting in more worries for the Japanese public about their country's future. They are also worried that lifting the ban on collective self-defense could draw Japan into military conflict.

Whether Japan conducts the exercise on its own or joins hands with other countries to do it, China remains resolved to defend the sovereignty of the Diaoyu islands.