Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya reported increased Chinese vessel activity near the Senkaku Islands, expressing significant concern during a Diet session. The presence of Chinese ships in Japanese waters marks a record intrusion, prompting protests from Japan. Despite a conciliatory meeting with Chinese diplomat Wang Yi, the situation remains tense as Japan aims for a calm but resolute response.

Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya has expressed increasing concerns regarding the heightened activity of Chinese vessels in proximity to the Senkaku Islands, stating that such occurrences are “clearly escalating.” He communicated this concern to top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi during a recent meeting in Tokyo. Two Chinese Coast Guard ships have been operating within Japan’s territorial waters around the uninhabited islets since early Friday, marking a significant diplomatic issue for Japan.

Iwaya officially protested their presence during a Diet committee session, emphasizing the need for Japanese authorities to take a firm stance. The Japan Coast Guard reported that the Chinese ships exited from Japanese waters past 10 p.m. on Monday after an extended presence of over 92 hours, which is notably the longest recorded intrusion since Japan nationalized the Senkakus in 2012, exceeding the previous record of about 80 hours.

During the weekend, the Japan Coast Guard also reported the intrusion of four Chinese vessels into Japanese waters, although two had departed by Sunday night. An opposition lawmaker raised questions regarding the timing of these intrusions coinciding with the foreign ministerial talks, labeling it “extremely inappropriate.” In response, Iwaya noted that while the meeting was conducted in a friendly atmosphere, the incidents are unfortunate and will be addressed with both resolve and calmness.

In summary, Japan’s diplomatic relations with China have been strained due to escalating maritime activity by Chinese vessels near the Senkaku Islands. The prolonged presence of these vessels, marking a record intrusion, has prompted official protests and raised concerns at the highest levels of Japanese government. Moving forward, Japan’s approach will remain resolute in addressing these territorial challenges while navigating diplomatic dialogue with China.

Original Source: english.kyodonews.net

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