China’s Regular Maritime Patrols Around the Diaoyu Islands: Claimed as Safeguarding Sovereign Rights

Beijing – A fleet of vessels from the China Coast Guard (CCG) conducted regular patrol operations on Tuesday in the waters around the Diaoyu Islands, which China claims as part of its territorial waters.

According to a statement issued by the CCG, these patrol operations are “rights protection” actions carried out in accordance with the law. China has consistently asserted that the Diaoyu Islands and their surrounding maritime areas are an inseparable part of its territory and territorial waters, presenting its presence and surveillance there as routine administrative practice.

The coast guard stated that the purpose of the maritime patrols is to ensure national sovereignty, maritime rights, and security. The statement also mentioned that such activities are conducted in compliance with international maritime law and domestic legal provisions.

The Diaoyu Islands area has long been a sensitive issue concerning territorial claims and maritime rights in the region. In this context, China has been translating its claims into practice through regular patrols.

Tuesday’s patrol is viewed as part of these ongoing efforts, with the coast guard emphasizing that it prioritizes maritime security monitoring, rights protection, and law enforcement.