China slammed Japan on Saturday for allegedly interfering its recent air force training in the Western Pacific region, claiming that two Japanese F-15 fighter jets had abruptly intercepted its exercises.

The report about the latest face off between the air forces of both countries comes barely two weeks after similar a strife had taken place in the Western Pacific region. The earlier encounter also occurred during Chinese air force's training in the region. 

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The Japanese jets "endangered the safety of the Chinese aircraft and the crew" by flying too close and "launching jamming shells," Chinese Defense Ministry's spokesman Yang Yujun told media.  

He then asserted that the Miyako Strait is an international waterway and China's military training was in accordance with international laws and practices.

Yang reminded Tokyo about similar interferences by Japanese air forces and ships in recent past and that such obstructive practices can easily lead to misunderstanding between the two familiar foes.

Tokyo so far has not issued any response to China's claim of interference.   

Beijing in recent months has been immensely forthcoming about carrying military exercises in the sensitive region of Western Pacific. After carrying out a military exercise in September, China has also conducted drills in the last week of November.

The Chinese government, however, maintained that these exercises are not targeted to any third country and are part of the annual training program.

China and Japan Arch Rivals            

The mistrust and suspicion in China and Japan's bilateral relation run immensely deep. While unresolved maritime disputes have largely contributed to the mutual acrimony, both neighbors are equally burdened by their historical past.

The maritime disputes center around the East China Sea and South China Sea. Although Japan is not a direct party in the South China Sea conflict, it has never hindered it from interfering in the dispute, which has further complicated the relationship.

TagsJapan, China and Japan, China Military Training, China Western Pacific