(6) Measures to Prevent the Seizure of Japanese Fishing Vessels
In recent years, countries have been increasing the exercise of their jurisdiction and strengthening their monitoring and law enforcement operations to project commercial fishing resources, etc., in their respective coastal waters. As a result, Japanese fishing vessels have been seized (nine vessels in 1995) in territorial seas claimed by other countries for operating within those territorial seas or violating commercial fishing agreements. In addition, some of the seized Japanese vessels were also fired upon during their capture.
Since countries are ratifying UNCLOS and establishing their EEZ, there are concerns that the seizing of Japanese fishing vessels by foreign warships will continue hereafter.
Therefore, taking into consideration the fishing activities of commercial fishing vessels, JMSA carries out guidance to prevent capture and otherwise promote orderly commercial fishing.
(7) Countermeasures Against Oceanographic Surveys by Foreign Vessels
a. Situation Prior to UNCLOS Ratification
Heightened interest in marine development by various countries and technological progress for the development of submarine resources have accompanied the expansion of the jurisdictions of coastal States. Japan has found that foreign oceanographic survey vessels, etc., have been operating in surrounding waters (12 vessels in 1995). In particular, Chinese oceanographic survey vessels have been conducting submarine resource surveys in the East China Sea quite frequently.
Japan has taken the stance of not permitting foreign submarine resource surveys in its continental shelf without Japan's consent. It is for this reason that JMSA has used its patrol vessels, craft, and aircraft to carry out the broadest ranging surveillance in continental shelf under Japanese jurisdiction.
b. Countermeasures Hereafter
As a result of the recent ratification of UNCLOS, the application of national laws against oceanographic survey vessels, etc., in EEZ and continental shelf have been clearly defined. Consequently, the excavation related activities of oil-drilling vessels and other such ships shall be dealt with in accordance with the Mines Law and other related laws.
In addition, oceanographic surveys exempted from the regulations of the Mines Law and other national laws, which Japan has not approved in advance, will be dealt with upon consultation with the agencies and ministries concerned.
