Looking back at the past when our countries were falling apart and diplomatic action was came to nothing, the Chinese people and its government now more than ever cherish the sovereignty and national dignity that has been obtained through constant struggle and strife. Therefore, we are and will always have our backbone to sustain the [dignity and integrity] of the country even if the situation becomes extremely hard. The Diaoyu Islands have always been part of China's sovereign territory. We will not give a single step in compromise on issues concerning national sovereignty and territory.

— Wen Jiabao