The Prime Minister of Japan Yoshihiko Noda has approved the deportation of the pro-China activists after they sailed to the disputed islands. The latest development was revealed by a government spokesperson on August 17, 2012.
According to the local media, the expulsions could happen as soon as on Friday afternoon. The government of Japan is moving quickly so as to put an end to the potentially destabilizing row with China.
Osamu Fujimura, the Chief Cabinet Secretary said, “The prime minister has received detailed reports on the illegal landing”. Fujimura added, “He yesterday decided to approve of the related agencies’ final conclusion to deport” the 14 activists.
The cabinet secretary denied that the decision has been taken on the grounds of political expediency. Fujimura while talking in a news conference said, “This is not something the government has decided on emotionally. We firmly and strictly responded in accordance with our domestic law”. Noda had on Friday called a special cabinet meeting and had been under pressure to act on an issue which is felt in Beijing also. Noda told the ministers that it was regrettable that they entered the Japan territory waters and illegally landed on the Outsurijima despite repeated warnings. The police said that all the people who were arrested have been handed over to the immigration officials.
