TOKYO –
Japan has requested for adjustments to an Equal Earth world map that depicts the Russian-controlled Northern Territories in the identical coloration as Russia, prompting the map’s creator to say the Japanese-language model shall be revised whereas the English model will stay unchanged.
The Equal Earth projection is designed to symbolize the relative sizes of nations and continents extra precisely. The United Nations General Assembly adopted a decision on September 4 encouraging its use.
A map revealed by Tom Patterson, one of many co-creators of the Equal Earth projection, reveals the Japanese archipelago in blue whereas the Northern Territories are displayed in the identical coloration as Russia.
The islands are additionally labeled with Russian-language names, accompanied by a notice stating that they’re successfully managed by Russia and claimed by Japan.
Patterson makes the map accessible on-line freed from cost and stated he referred to maps produced by U.S. authorities businesses and different sources when getting ready it.
In an interview on September 9, Patterson stated that as a mapmaker, there are conditions that should be mirrored on a map even when he considers the circumstances undesirable.
He stated the Japanese-language model can be modified in order that the Northern Territories are proven in the identical coloration because the Japanese archipelago. However, he intends to retain the present coloring within the English-language model to mirror the scenario of efficient management.
Japan’s authorities has requested that the web site operator revise the map.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara stated the federal government considers it needed to forestall incorrect perceptions from spreading relating to Japan’s territory and geographical names, including that Japanese diplomatic missions abroad had contacted the web site operator to request corrections to the map.
Kihara confused that the federal government would proceed to reply in a approach that ensures Japan’s place will not be undermined.
Source: FNN