The East China Sea Issue: Japan-China Talks for Oil and Gas

Japan and China argued for oil and gas in the East China Sea. The issue flared up in 2003. Between 2004 and 2007 the two sides held 11 rounds of official talks in order to resolve the issue. They sought demarcation of the sea and joint development in the disputed area. The gap between positions remained wide. China claims its continental shelf; Japan proposes a median line. By closely monitoring different rounds of talks, remarks, developments, maneuvers, negotiators and dates, it is possible to construct a broad picture of the issue to measure progress and predict outcomes. It is found that improving relations not only facilitate negotiations but somehow exert pressure for a settlement. The general relationship did affect the pace of talks, which could produce a partial solution.

Kung-wing AuEmail:

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Kung-wing Au   holds a Ph.D. degree in Political Science from the City University of New York. He has worked as a journalist for a number of newspapers and taught at Drew University in New Jersey, USA. He is adjunct assistant professor of political science, Fordham College at Lincoln Center. Email: au33@hotmail.com.