Japan maintained its position on its sovereignty over the Senkaku Islands on Wednesday, a year after Tokyo purchased some of the islets in the East China Sea which are also claimed by China.
The government said the islands are part of Japanese territory, but added that it is open to dialogue with China over a strategic partnership of mutual benefit.
"It has been evident (the islands) are Japan's territory. We will maintain absolutely the same position that no dispute (officially) exists" over the Senkakus, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told reporters in Hokkaido.
Source: Kyodo
