The Japanese government has reached an agreement to purchase three islets of the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea from the landowner for some ¥2.05 billion. The agreement has drawn a fierce reaction from China, which also claims the islands. It called the purchase "illegal and invalid."

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said China "will take necessary measures to defend its sovereignty."

But China, and Japan for that matter, should exercise self-restraint in the Senkaku issue. It is imperative for both to look at the big picture and seek ways that will bring mutual benefits. They should realize that a flareup over the islands could jeopardize the foundations of their bilateral relationship.