A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Tuesday that Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands are China's inherent territory, and China does not accept the unjustified representation by Japan over the patrol by China Coast Guard (CCG) in its territorial waters.

Spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks at a daily press briefing, in response to a query about media reports that four CCG vessels entered the waters around the Diaoyu Dao on November 16, and Minoru Kihara, Japan's chief cabinet secretary, said the country has lodged stern protests over the patrol via diplomatic channels.

Mao said the CCG vessels conducting law enforcement patrols in China's territorial waters are justified and legitimate, urging the Japanese side to respect China's territorial sovereignty, refrain from obstructing CCG patrols, and avoid actions that could escalate the situation.

(With input from Xinhua)