China's Ambassador to Japan says he has told Japan's foreign minister that disputed islands in the East China Sea are an integral part of China's territory. He said disputes between the two nations should be resolved through diplomacy and dialogue.
"It is natural for Chinese ships to be active in these waters. The Japanese side should not make irresponsible remarks. Both sides should exercise restraint and avoid making the situation worse. Both should try to resolve the issue based on consensus," Chinese ambassador to Japan Cheng Yonghua siad.
Tensions have risen between the two countries, with Japan protesting over an increasing number of Chinese government ships sailing near the Diaoyu islands over the last few days.