China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Zhao Lijian on Monday urged Japan to stop any illegal activities near Diaoyu Islands in the East China sea.

Chinese coast guard vessels detected illegal activities of a Japanese fishing boat close to Diaoyu Islands on Sunday. The coast guard has since monitored the boat and demanded it to exit the area.

Zhao said that China has lodged solemn representations with Japan on the issue, adding that the "Diaoyu Islands and its adjacent islets have been an inherent part of Chinese territory since ancient times."

The Chinese side has asked Japan to stop provocations in Diaoyu Islands issue and protect the stability of East China Sea, said Zhao.