Chinese Foreign Ministry says the recent patrols in waters near the Diaoyu Islands are routine.

On Tuesday morning, the Chinese marine surveillance fleet expelled several Japanese vessels that were found sailing around the Diaoyu islands .

The Foreign Ministry Spokesman says the patrol conducted by surveillance ships is to exercise China's jurisdiction over the islands.

SOUNDBITE:(Chinese) HONG LEI, Foreign Ministry Spokesman
"The marine surveillance fleet is conducting regular patrols and law enforcement in waters around the Diaoyu Islands, which are China's territory. This is well-grounded."

According to a Chinese State Oceanic Administration statement, the fleet surveilled the Japanese vessels and took photos as evidence.