Message to America: Stop Military Action in China’s Doorway

The news of the United States’ intention to conduct joint military drills with South Korea in the Yellow Sea has provoked many Chinese. If the U.S. is sincere about safeguarding harmony and prosperity in the Western Pacific region, it has to listen to the Chinese people’s true feelings.

According to the latest survey conducted by the Huan Qiu network, 96% of Internet users are of the opinion that the entry of U.S. vessels into the Yellow Sea during U.S.-Korea practice drills would pose a threat to China.

After the Huan Qiu Daily reported an expert’s opinion that “China should stay calm,” thousands of Internet users left discontented comments criticizing U.S. intentions as “not cool.” The U.S. has been criticizing China in many ways all these years, but finding fault in the military arena is most unacceptable from a Chinese perspective.

Americans may think that since the U.S. Air Force conducted military practices in Yellow Sea in the past, they could probably do it again this time and in the future too. However, Americans should understand that every country has its own security boundary. With China’s increased capability, the U.S.’s provocative action in close proximity to China becomes more sensitive.

Nobody is willing to let a distrustful competitor wander outside one’s house with a loaded gun. Americans certainly do not want their rivals to do so.

China does not object to the existence of the U.S. military base in Western Pacific arena and understands that some countries in this region still rely on America for a sense of security. The U.S.’s peacemaking role in this region is irreplaceable. However, this does not mean that American troops can ignore Chinese self-esteem and show off their air force vessels in front of China’s gateway.

If the U.S. wants Western Pacific countries to respect its authority in this part of the world, it should learn how to respect these countries and adapt to their political and economical changes, especially changes in public opinion. It should make people feel that the U.S.’s existence is crucial for peacemaking, and not vice versa.

To be a long-term stabilizing influence in the Pacific area rather than a troublemaker, the U.S. should pay attention to social mood. Otherwise, the American military cannot stay here in the long run and uphold American interests.

China does not want to be a rival, but the U.S. should maintain essential respect. Such provocative acts by the U.S. will only create ill feelings and be seen as threats.

It has not been easy for the China-U.S. relationship to come this far. Hence, both countries have to cherish and nurture the relationship cautiously, especially paying attention to the people’s feelings on the ground. Do not risk ruining mutual trust between both nations. If America’s strategy is what President Barack Obama has claimed, respect and equality, then the U.S. should restrain its military operations in Pacific and stop this provocative action.