Japan-China communication mechanism launched to avert clash at sea

Japan and China launched a communication mechanism between their defense authorities on Friday to avert accidental clashes at sea and in the air, while sidestepping a territorial row over a group of small islands in the East China Sea."The start (of the system) is an important step to enhance the mutual understanding and trust between Japan and China," Japanese Defense Minister Itsunori Onodera said, noting that arrangements are under way to open a hotline between the countries' defense officials.The launch of the Maritime and Aerial Communication Mechanism was a long-pending issue, with th…READ FULL ARTICLE