Chinese Boat Captain To Be Released Amid Tensions

Zhan Qixiong, the Chinese boat captain, who was being detained by Japanese authorities since September 8, is to be released. His detention was the cause of the worst strife between Beijing and Tokyo in years. Qixiong was accused of intentionally crashing into two Japanese coast guard ships in disputed waters near the East China Sea. Beijing had been pushing for his unconditional and immediate release.

The decision came after China took four Japanese men into custody for filming in a military controlled area.  A spokesperson for Japanese foreign ministry told that Japanese embassy in China has been informed of arrests. However, he declined to comment on whether these arrests were related to the detention of a Chinese boat captain by Japan.

Tensions have risen between the two countries since the captain was taken into custody. Earlier this week, Wen Jiabao, the Chinese Premier, said that the responsibility for the present situation rests solely on Japan, and called for the instant release of the detained captain.

Hillary Clinton, US Secretary of State Hillary called on both countries to quickly resolve the dispute before it has a long-lasting affect on the region.

The Chinese fishing boat was traveling in an area near uninhabited Diaoyu islands claimed by both Tokyo and Beijing, which are believed to possess gas and oil reserves. Japanese attorneys had until next week to make a decision on whether to charge the detained captain or not.