China urges fair ROK investigation of detained ships

China on Friday urged the Republic of Korea (ROK) to investigate a ship-detaining incident fairly and ensure the legitimate rights and interests of the seized fishermen.

Two Chinese fishing boats suspected of illegal fishing in ROK waters were detained by the country's coast guard on Monday in Mokpo. Two Chinese fishermen and several coast guard officers were injured when the coast guard attempted to intercept the fishing boats.

"China has asked the ROK to provide timely medical treatment to the fishermen, investigate the incident fairly in line with the law, and ensure their personal safety and legitimate rights and interests," Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said at a daily news briefing.

"We will follow closely the developments of the case and provide necessary assistance to the fishermen involved, and we urge the ROK to come up with an appropriate solution as soon as possible," Hua said.

The Center for Consular Assistance and Protection under the Chinese Foreign Ministry and the Chinese Consulate General in Kwangju launched an emergency mechanism after the incident, and the Consulate General has sent diplomats to visit the fishermen, according to Hua.

China and the ROK are in close communication on fishery cooperation and have a common understanding on proper handling of fishing disputes, Hua said.

"Both sides agree to proceed from a broader picture of bilateral relations and handle the disputes in a mutually beneficial manner," Hua said.

China will continue to strengthen fishery management and ask the fishermen to carry out legal operations, Hua said, also voicing hope for the ROK to enforce the law in a civilized manner and protect the personal safety of Chinese fishermen.

China is willing to work with the ROK to maintain orderly fishing activities in relevant waters in the spirit of mutual understanding and accommodation, she added.