A Taiwan fishing boat seized and then released by a Japanese vessel last month returned to the island on Thursday as Taiwan authorities vowed to protect fishermen's rights.
"Tung Sheng Chi 16" arrived in Pingtung County in southern Taiwan on Thursday afternoon. Officials and family of the crew welcomed them at the port.
The fishing boat was chased and seized by a Japanese vessel on April 25 when it was sailing at 138.38 degrees east longitude and 19.47 degrees north latitude. Japan released the boat and crew after its owner paid a deposit as demanded by Japan.
The seizure triggered protests from Taiwan authorities and fishermen. On Sunday, Taiwan dispatched two patrol ships to protect fishing boats operating on high seas near the Okinotori Atoll.
The atoll is just a reef and thus Japan cannot claim a 200 nautical-mile exclusive economic zone, said a statement of Taiwan authorities. Taiwan leader Ma Ying-jeou vowed to resolutely safeguard fishermen's rights.
Every year, some 100 to 200 Taiwan fishing boats operate near the atoll, according to Taiwan fishery authorities.
