Allowing the US-led bloc into the worldwide East is to let “the wolf into the sheepfold,” Beijing’s envoy to Russia says
Japan and different nations ought to be taught some “history lessons” and never turn into proponents of NATO growth into the area, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui has stated.
The diplomat made the remarks in an unique interview with TASS printed on Thursday, reiterating Beijing’s repeated warnings concerning the risks of bringing the US-led bloc into the East and Asia-Pacific, particularly.
“We advise Japan and other courtiers to learn the lessons of history in full: They should not, without taking the stance of other nations into consideration, unilaterally undermine peace and stability in the region, they should not become the proponents of NATO’s expansion into the East. Like they say: Let the wolf into the sheepfold, it will take a bite on every sheep,” the ambassador stated.
Earlier this yr, NATO thought-about opening a liaison workplace in Japan, which might have turn into the primary facility of the bloc within the area. While Tokyo indicated it was contemplating the concept, France has reportedly shot down the venture round President Macron’s current go to to China, insisting NATO ought to stay confined to the North Atlantic as a substitute.
The potential transfer has prompted agency opposition from China, with Beijing pledging to point out a “resolute response” ought to the US-led bloc attempt to transfer nearer to its borders. Back in July, China promised to “safeguard its sovereignty” and oppose “NATO’s eastward expansion into the Asia-Pacific,” warning that “any actions that damage China’s legitimate rights and interests will be met with a resolute response.”
The liaison workplace in Japan thought apparently ended up shelved for now, with a number of media stories suggesting the bloc will think about establishing a foothold in Tokyo this fall and even later.