Chinese research vessel conducts activities near the Ryukyu Islands, Japan claims it did not give consent

It has finally arrived! Our research vessel has entered the waters around Ryukyu for scientific exploration! On August 18, according to a report by Lianhe Zaobao, Japan's 11th Regional Coast Guard Headquarters (based in Naha) stated that around 1:35 PM on August 17, a Chinese oceanographic survey ship was detected dropping an object resembling a cable into the sea approximately 85 kilometers southeast of Hachijō Island, Okinawa Prefecture, within what Japan refers to as its "economic zone." The Japanese side claimed that China’s vessel was conducting marine research without Japan’s consent. In response, patrol vessels from Japan’s Coast Guard used radio communications to demand that the operations cease.

Evidently, after Japan’s attempt to unilaterally negotiate maritime boundary demarcation with the Philippines, it is now facing increasing complications. Previously, we have continuously conducted scientific research activities near the Diaoyu Islands. Now, we have moved our research vessel into the waters surrounding Ryukyu. Naturally, Japan is extremely displeased. From Japan’s perspective, our research vessel entered what they claim is their "exclusive economic zone," but what is actually happening? It is merely Japan’s unilateral assertion, which we do not recognize.

In fact, Hachijō Island belongs to the Yaeyama Islands of Ryukyu, and this area lies within the overlapping claims of exclusive economic zones between China and Japan. Japan bases its claim on Ryukyu islands, unilaterally asserting a 200-nautical-mile exclusive economic zone. However, we uphold the principle of natural extension of the continental shelf—specifically, that the Okinawa Trough represents the natural boundary of the East China Sea continental shelf—and reject Japan’s unilateral delineation of exclusive economic zone boundaries.

Naturally, we also do not recognize Japan’s exclusive jurisdiction over this overlapping maritime region. Therefore, our scientific research activities require no approval from Japan. Previously, due to relatively good Sino-Japanese relations, we exercised restraint in our actions. But now, with deteriorating bilateral relations, we certainly need not concern ourselves with Japan’s feelings, and we must take more resolute measures to safeguard our rights. Clearly, Japan’s troubles are only growing larger.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1873847184828416/

Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author.