The Japanese ambassador to China, Uichiro Niwa, was called back to Japan on Sunday in a retaliatory move after Chinese vessels entered waters claimed by both countries, The Wall Street Journal reported. The decision by Japanese Foreign Minister, Koichiro Gemba, suggests that animosity between the two countries over the disputed islands has intensified. The disagreement kicked up to high gear when Japanese Prime Minister, Yoshihiko Noda, announced on July 7th that the country was considering purchasing the privately owned islands. This in turn prompted Chinese patrol vessels to enter disputed waters, sparking protests. According to Japanese media reports, Niwa’s return to Japan is only temporary, with the ambassador planning to return to China immediately.
China Economic Review