Japan freed Zheng Nianli, the captain of a Chinese fishing boat seized inside Japan’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) off Nagasaki. The release happened before 8 pm on Friday after China submitted bail payment guarantees, NHK reported. The boat named Qiong Dong Yu was caught fleeing during an inspection. It was seized about 170 km southwest of Meshima Island, an area under Japan’s control and not disputed. The Japanese Fisheries Agency found no fish on board. The vessel can catch large amounts of fish like mackerel and horse mackerel. China requested Japan to protect the crew’s rights and follow the China-Japan fisheries agreement. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian said, “It is hoped the Japanese side will strictly abide by the China-Japan fisheries agreement, enforce the law impartially and ensure the safety as well as the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese crew members.” The Chinese consulate in Fukuoka is assisting the crew’s return. China and Japan disagree on their maritime boundary in the East China Sea. Japan supports a median line, while China disputes this, claiming an extended continental shelf. This incident follows earlier maritime conflicts, including a major 2010 case that led to diplomatic tensions. Recently, Japan has advised fishermen to avoid areas near disputed islands to reduce conflicts with China.