China Coast Guard issued a territorial waters warning on Tuesday after a Japanese fishing boat intruded into the waters of Diaoyu Dao. The vessel named Tsurumaru entered China’s inherent territory, spokesperson Jiang Lue said. Coast guard vessels took necessary measures to warn and expel the boat promptly. Jiang reiterated that Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands are China’s inherent territory.
The Coast Guard’s operations followed legal procedures without exception. Jiang urged the Japanese side to stop all rights violation and provocative acts immediately. He stressed that such activities in the relevant waters must cease. The Coast Guard will continue conducting rights protection and law enforcement operations around Diaoyu Dao. Consequently, it will resolutely safeguard China’s sovereignty and maritime rights.
Diaoyu Dao has been a point of longstanding territorial dispute between China and Japan. China consistently asserts its sovereignty over the islands and their surrounding waters. Previous incidents have involved similar warnings and expulsions over the years. Japan has repeatedly protested such measures, but China maintains its position firmly. The Coast Guard’s statement did not specify how long the Japanese boat remained in the area.
Experts note that China has increased its maritime patrols in recent years. These patrols aim to deter unauthorized foreign vessels from entering disputed waters. The territorial waters warning also reflects China’s broader strategy of asserting control through regular law enforcement. Future incidents may lead to more frequent warnings or escalated responses. China urges Japan to respect its territorial claims and avoid confrontation. Otherwise, the Coast Guard will continue its operations as needed. China remains committed to protecting its maritime interests through lawful means.
