Japanese Destroyer Enters Chinese Waters Near Taiwan, Beijing Expresses Serious Concerns

A Japanese navy destroyer, Suzutsuki, entered China's territorial waters near Taiwan without notifying Beijing, sparking significant concerns. The incident occurred off Zhejiang province during Chinese naval drills. China's vessels issued warnings, and Beijing has demanded clarity from Tokyo. An investigation by Japan's defense ministry is underway.

A Japanese navy destroyer, Suzutsuki, made an unauthorized entry into China's territorial waters near Taiwan, heightening tensions between the two nations. The event took place earlier this month off Zhejiang province, where China was conducting naval drills, as reported by Japanese media late on Wednesday.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's destroyer, tasked with monitoring Chinese missile exercises in the East China Sea, ventured into the contested waters without prior notification to Beijing. According to sources in Japan's defense ministry, the Suzutsuki sailed within 12 nautical miles of the Zhejiang coast for approximately 20 minutes, disregarding warnings from Chinese vessels. Beijing has voiced serious concerns to Tokyo regarding the incident.

Japan's defense ministry has initiated an investigation, questioning the actions of Suzutsuki's captain and crew. This event follows prior instances of Chinese naval and coast guard vessels entering Japanese waters, which have previously led to diplomatic protests from Tokyo. In a related context, the Chinese military accused a U.S. Navy ship of illegal entry into a disputed area of the South China Sea in December.

(With inputs from agencies.)