Japan Warns against China's Maritime Activities

Referring to tensions over China's growing assertiveness in the South China Sea, Fumio said that Japan will step up efforts to ensure the rule of law for "open and stable seas." He pledged to work for a further improvement of ties with Beijing. 

"A number of countries have expressed grave concerns about unilateral actions that change the status quo and escalate tensions," Kishida said in a foreign policy address.

"Any unilateral attempts, such as land reclamation, to create an accomplished fact cannot be accepted," Kishida said.

Japan will resolutely and calmly respond to China's unilateral resource development in the East China Sea and territorial intrusions near Senkaku Islands in Okinawa Prefecture, southern Japan, Kishida said. China claims the Japanese-administered islands, which it calls Diaoyu.

The relationship between Japan and China faces serious and new difficulties. In particular, the recent unilateral attempts by China to change the status quo in the South China Sea and the East China Sea have become an issue of concern for the region and the international community. 

While it is natural to protect sovereignty and territorial integrity, the respect for and maintenance of international order based on the universally recognized principles, such as open seas and the rule of law, is a basic principle of diplomacy for Japan as a trade-oriented nation.