China's Foreign Ministry Refutes Japan's Claims on July 21, Cites International Law

According to China's Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian on July 21, China firmly rejected Japan's protest over alleged military drills in disputed waters. Lin stated that Diaoyu Rocks constitute rocks rather than islands under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, therefore cannot claim an exclusive economic zone.

Lin emphasized that China's activities in international waters comply with international law and maritime conventions. He added that Japan's allegations and militarization efforts contradict the post-war international order, urging the international community to remain vigilant against such developments.