The Japanese Coast Guard confirmed on Tuesday that a Chinese marine research ship has departed from Japan's exclusive economic zone. The vessel, identified as the Kexue, was initially detected on September 27 near Ishigaki island in Okinawa prefecture. According to coast guard officials, the ship was observed deploying equipment into the water for scientific research purposes without prior authorization from Tokyo. Japanese authorities issued repeated radio communications demanding an immediate cessation of these activities, asserting that such research within their maritime jurisdiction requires official consent. Following these persistent warnings, the Chinese vessel concluded its operations and exited the area last Friday. This incident highlights ongoing maritime tensions regarding research activities in contested or sensitive waters near the Japanese archipelago.
Source : Hong Kong Free Press
Photo : Hong Kong Free Press
