Official statements from the Japanese government or Japanese Foreign Ministry

Japanese Destroyer Suzutsuki Incursion on July 10 Sparks Chinese Protests

Jul 11, 2024, 10:20 AM

A Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer, Suzutsuki, temporarily entered China's territorial waters near Taiwan on July 10, sparking serious concerns from Beijing. The incident led China to lodge formal protests and request an investigation from Japan. The Chinese Foreign Ministry demanded that Japan ensure such incidents do not recur, describing the entry as illegal and improper. Japan has explained the incursion as a technical mistake. Furthermore, Chinese authorities reported driving away Japanese vessels from the Diaoyu Islands.