China, ROK maritime law enforcement agencies conduct joint patrol

BEIJING, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- The maritime law enforcement agencies of China and the Republic of Korea (ROK) conducted a joint patrol in the provisional measures zone under the China-ROK Fishery Agreement.

A joint team comprising one China Coast Guard (CCG) vessel and one ROK fisheries guidance vessel patrolled over 1,200 nautical miles for 210 hours between Oct. 8 and 17, according to a statement issued by the CCG on Saturday.

During the patrol, the two sides observed and documented fishing vessels from both countries, conducted boarding inspections, and provided guidance to fishermen.

The joint patrol further strengthened exchanges and cooperation between the two countries' maritime law enforcement agencies and enhanced the management of fishing vessels operating in the provisional measures zone, according to the statement.

It is expected to help combat illegal fishing, maintain order in fishing operations, and conserve marine fishery resources.

The CCG will continue to strengthen exchanges and practical cooperation with its ROK counterpart, promote mutual understanding, and work together to protect fishery resources in the Yellow Sea.

The previous such joint patrol was conducted in April 2022.