The fourteen Chinese fishermen illegally detained by Japan safely returned today by a Chinese Government chartered plane. The illegally detained boat also started its journey back. Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Agriculture and the Provincial Government of Fujian were on the same plane to provide care and express sympathy.

Since Japan's illegal detention of Chinese fishermen and boat, China has lodged repeated solemn representations with Japan, and the entire Chinese people and compatriots both at home and abroad have condemned Japan's illegal acts with one voice, which fully embodies the firm will and resolve of the Chinese Government and people to defend their territory and sovereignty.

At present, Japan is still illegally detaining the captain of the Chinese fishing boat. China again strongly urges Japan to let him return immediately.