China Removes Buoy Near Disputed Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands Amid Tensions with Japan
China's Foreign Ministry has responded to Japan's inquiry about the removal of a buoy near the disputed Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands, stating that the buoy had completed its mission and was removed for technical reasons. The buoy, which was installed by China in July 2023, was seen as a source of tension between China and Japan, with Japan viewing it as an attempt to assert China's claim to the disputed territory.
11 February 2025
According to reports, the buoy was removed by China as part of an effort to improve relations with Japan. The Japanese government had previously expressed concern over the installation of the buoy, which was seen as a provocation. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that the removal of the buoy was a technical adjustment made according to scientific observation needs, and that the buoy had completed its mission. The spokesperson also emphasized that China's installation of the buoy was in accordance with Chinese domestic law and international law.
The development has been welcomed by Japan, with the Japanese government viewing it as a positive step towards improving relations with China. The removal of the buoy is seen as a sign that China is willing to make concessions to ease tensions in the region. However, the underlying dispute over the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands remains unresolved, and it remains to be seen whether this development will lead to further progress in resolving the issue.
The buoys in question were reportedly set up by China in July 2023, sparking tensions between China and Japan over the disputed islands. The Japanese government had previously expressed concerns over the presence of the buoys, arguing that they were an attempt by China to assert its claims over the islands. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiajun stated that the buoys had completed their tasks and were removed as part of a technical adjustment, emphasizing that China's deployment of the buoys was in accordance with both Chinese domestic law and international law.
The incident highlights the ongoing tensions between China and Japan over the disputed islands, which have been a major point of contention between the two countries for many years. Despite efforts to improve relations, the issue remains a sensitive topic, and any developments are closely watched by both governments and the international community. The removal of the buoys may be a step towards easing tensions between the two nations, but the situation remains complex and sensitive, and the implications of this move will likely be closely watched by both governments and the international community.
China's decision to remove the buoys was based on scientific and technical considerations, rather than political factors, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry. The spokesperson emphasized that the buoys had completed their tasks at their original locations and were removed based on the needs of scientific observation, demonstrating that China's actions were based on legitimate and reasonable grounds. This decision has been seen as a significant development in the relationship between China and Japan, and its implications will continue to be monitored closely by both governments and the international community.
