July 7th, Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning presided over a regular press conference.
A journalist asked a question. According to reports, on the 3rd, the Japanese Coast Guard stated that at around 11:00 noon, a Chinese marine survey vessel entered Japan’s exclusive economic zone near Kumimi Island in Okinawa Prefecture and released objects similar to cables. A Japanese patrol boat sent a radio message asking the vessel to stop its activities. What are the Chinese side's comments on this?
Mao Ning stated that the Diaoyu Islands and their affiliated islands are an inherent part of China's territory. The Chinese research vessel's activities in the waters surrounding the Diaoyu Islands are within the scope of China's sovereign rights, and are legitimate and lawful without any criticism.
"Chinese side resolutely opposes Japan's interference in Chinese scientific examination vessel's legitimate activities, and has already lodged a formal protest with the Japanese side." Mao Ning said.
