China says no concession on territorial sovereignty

China says it will take forceful measures in response to any moves that challenge the country’s bottom-line on sovereignty. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Zhang Zhijun issued the warning at a press briefing he gave to Chinese and foreign journalists in Beijing on Friday. He called on Japan to face historical facts on the issue of the Diaoyu Islands. Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Zhang Zhijun began with a statement saying the Diaoyu Islands are China’s inherent territory historically and legally. He said the Diaoyu Islands had not been an issue and there had been no dispute overr the sovereignty over Diaoyu Islands in the first place. It was only because Japan illegally seized and occupied the islands in 1895 that the current dispute came into being. With regards to Japan’s so-called "purchase" of the islands, Zhang responded by saying no transaction is allowed over the sale of even one inch of the territory or anything on it. Zhang also warned that if Japan cannot face up to history, it will never stand up morally or psychologically. He underlined that in contact and consultations at all levels, the Chinese government has stated its solemn position on the issue and strong determination to safeguard territorial integrity. China has urged Japan to have a correct reading of the situation, abandon any illusion and face up to reality. Japan should correct its mistake with credible steps and make real efforts so that the current problem will be handled properly. Vice foreign minister Zhang Zhijun told the journalists that China has to uphold principles and bottom line in handling its relationships with Japan. China will never make any concession on issues regarding territorial sovereignty. He said should anyone want to challenge China’s bottom line on the issue of sovereignty, China will have no alternative but to respond forcefully so as to remove disturbance and obstacles and move steadily on the path of peaceful development.