The China Coast Guard on Tuesday expelled a Japanese fishing vessel that it said illegally entered China’s territorial waters near the Diaoyu Islands. According to an official statement, patrol ships took necessary control measures and ordered the vessel to leave the area in accordance with Chinese law.
Authorities reiterated that the Diaoyu Islands and their affiliated islets are an inherent part of China’s territory. They called on Japan to immediately halt actions viewed as infringements or provocations in the region.
The statement emphasized that China will continue strengthened law enforcement patrols around the Diaoyu Islands to protect its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.