China Coast Guard expels Japanese fishing vessel from territorial waters off Diaoyu Island

(ECNS) -- A spokesperson for the China Coast Guard (CCG) said on Sunday that a Japanese fishing vessel had been expelled after illegally entering the territorial waters of China's Diaoyu Island.

According to CCG spokesperson Liu Dejun, the vessel intruded into Chinese waters of Diaoyu Island between Saturday and Sunday. In response, the CCG took lawful control measures, issued warnings, and drove the vessel away.

Liu reiterated that Diaoyu and its affiliated islets are an inherent part of China's territory, and urged Japan to immediately halt all illegal activities in the area.

He added that the CCG would continue regular law enforcement operations in the waters off Diaoyu Island to firmly safeguard China's sovereignty and maritime rights.

(By Evelyn)