Chinese Ministry of National Defense Spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang

The Diaoyu Dao and their affiliated islets are China's inherent territory. It is legitimate and lawful for the China Coast Guard (CCG) to conduct patrols and law-enforcement operations in the relevant waters to safeguard maritime rights and territorial integrity, leaving no room for anyone seeking to infringe upon China's territory. There is no need for the relevant parties to make a fuss over this, Chinese Ministry of National Defense Spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang said on Thursday.

Zhang made the remarks in response to a media inquiry regarding Japanese media reports which claimed by the end of 2025, China Coast Guard vessels had been spotted in waters related to the Diaoyu Dao on 356 days, exceeding the 355 days recorded in 2024 and setting a new record.

We urge the Japanese side to exercise restraint in both words and actions and refrain from taking any steps that could escalate the situation. Otherwise, it will only end up lifting a rock to drop it on its own foot, said Zhang.

Global Times