Regarding Michael Richardson's March 22 article, "China's military buildup breeds distrust": In Ronald Reagan's immortal words, "There you go again!" Richardson seems never to miss an opportunity to bash China.

This particular piece borders on yellow journalism. The most powerful military force in Asia is not China's but America's with its network of allies, military "places" and significant technological advantages. As former U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and other U.S. officials have said, it will be so for many years to come.

The U.S. "pivot" to Asia and its arrogant and belligerent rhetoric have certainly helped heighten tension in the region. In these trying times, it is important for journalists and analysts alike to objectively keep the rise of China in perspective and not to exaggerate its so-called potential threat or to portray it as an inevitable enemy.

The opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are the writer's own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of The Japan Times.

mark valencia