The ongoing dispute between China and Japan is not only hurting Sino-Japanese ties, but also affecting countries they do business with. The Diaoyu Islands dispute is becoming more like an "Asian Cold War".

When tensions intensify, markets fall, which could harm both economies and put Sino-Japanese partnership at risk.

Japan and China should shelve their dispute and instead focus on developing their economies further for the good of their people.

If Japanese politicians were wise, they would have avoided the conflict that could possibly have an impact on the global economy.

Michelle, via e-mail

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(China Daily 11/21/2012 page9)