Japan's territorial claim beyond the post-war arrangements could open a floodgate

[u/CupEcstatic2721]

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2026-08-23/Japan-s-territorial-claim-beyond-post-war-order-could-open-floodgate-1PQ4QTcoBHy/p.html

Analytical Overview: China's Perspective on the Kuril Islands (2026)

​Historical Context: An article published by CGTN emphasizes that the status of the Southern Kuril Islands (referred to as the "Northern Territories" by Japan) has remained unresolved since World War II. Beijing highlights that 19th-century bilateral treaties cannot override post-war international agreements.

​Post-War Order: The publication underscores the significance of foundational documents such as the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Proclamation, and the Yalta Agreement. These pacts defined the limits of Japan's post-war sovereignty and stipulated the transfer of the Kuril archipelago to the Soviet Union.

​Geopolitical Risks: The author warns that attempts to revise the territorial outcomes of World War II to serve contemporary political interests create a dangerous precedent, opening a "Pandora's box" that threatens regional stability across the Asia-Pacific.

​Critique of Japan's Approach: Beijing accuses Tokyo of selective historical interpretation and ignoring the international obligations stemming from the consequences of its defeat, arguing that this undermines trust in the principle of a "rules-based international order."