The Diaoyutai-Senkaku dispute is a territorial dispute between China and Japan over five uninhabited atoll islands roughly 200 kilometres Northeast from Keelung. The ambiguity stemmed from the unclear phrasing of the 1895 Treaty of Shimonoseki, which stated that "the island of Formosa, together with all the islands appertaining or belonging to the island of Formosa" are to become Japanese territories.
While not involved directly in the dispute, Taiwan sought to become the facilitator of negotiations between the two sides. President Ma Ying-jeou recommended the two countries' representatives set aside the threats and rhetoric in favour of meaningful, constructive dialogue. His suggestions were largely ignored by both China and Japan.
