Having failed to convince the world that I am dictated by the United States, Beijing is now changing the narrative. Their latest video claims I am a product of Japanese propagandist training — that my master’s from the Japan Coast Guard Academy and GRIPS, as part of the first batch of the Maritime Safety and Security Program, is where I supposedly learned to embed media on board and frame narratives casting China as the villain in the West Philippine Sea. They go further and claim my PhD trained me to craft narratives designed to harm the PRC.
Consider how absurd this is!
First, the PRC should stop thinking so highly of itself. Japan does not need to spend its taxpayers’ money to damage China’s international reputation — China does that on its own, through its bullying, its aggression, and its unlawful activities at sea. No training program is required to report what Chinese vessels do in broad daylight.
Second, Japan trains foreign nationals to become better professionals and better human beings, in support of economic prosperity and a peaceful world. Not to provoke anyone. Not to escalate tension.
Third, China should stop comparing Japan to itself. What I learned in Japan was maritime safety, the rule of law, and UNCLOS — the same principles the Japanese government upholds in supporting peaceful coexistence, adherence to international law, and inclusive growth. That is a different tradition entirely from one that spreads lies and violates international law without hesitation.
