For the first time in over 70 years, a Chinese warship is currently in Japanese waters - on a mission to promote relations between the two nations.

The warship's presence symbolises the improved relationship that China and Japan have forged over the past 12 months, despite the latter's concerns over Chinese military assimilation.

Cui Tiankai, China's ambassador to Japan, has labelled the ship a "messenger of peace."

A Chinese ship has not dropped anchor in Japan since 1934.

Japan Concerned About China's Military Growth

China's build up of military assets is a source of much fear in Japan. A senior officer within the Chinese armed forces announced in Tokyo that China's programme of modernisation was transparent, and had its origins in reasons of self-defence.

Japan and China first planned this meeting in 2000. However, in 2001, Junichiro Koizumi, Japan's then-Prime Minister, began a series of yearly trips to the Yasukuni Shrine - a site which, in the eyes of China, celebrates former military glories.

Consequently, the bi-lateral plans were put into suspension. However, Mr Koizumi's ministerial step-down paved the way for Japan and China to renew their relations.

Despite this, the region is still one characterised by tensions.

China Refused Hong Kong Entry to US Aircraft Carrier

Earlier in November, China refused entry into Hong Kong to a US aircraft carrier. The manoeuvre had been months in planning, but officials in China were unwilling to provide any kind of explanation.

Source - Armed Forces International's Far East Correspondent

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