The on-going, territorial dispute between China and Japan, over the ownership of a series of islands. Has seen China send six surveillance ships into the region today, as part of a 'law enforcement' procedure.

The islands known by the Chinese as The Diaoyu Islands have historically been part of their territory and fishing grounds. The Japanese know them as the Senkaku Islands. This footage shows a navy officer speaking to a Japanese patrol boat that these islands are Chinese.

"The Diaoyu Islands and their affiliated islets have been part of China's inherent territory ever since ancient times. China has possessed sufficient historical facts and legal basis on this. Your ship has already violated the sovereignty and sovereign rights of the People's Republic of China. All the unilateral measures taken by your side are illegal and invalid. Please stop all your offensive actions. Otherwise, you will bear all the consequences arising from this."

In response to this move The Japanese government speaking on state TV said it will increase security near disputed islands with China.

"We want to strengthen our security in the area, in light of the recent situation and increase the level of co-ordination between the relevant ministries to increase security around the Senkaku islands."

The long-running territorial dispute flared last month when Japan detained a group of Chinese activists who had landed on the islands. Then tensions rose even further after Japan announced it planned to buy three of the uninhabited but mineral rich islands from a private owner. And with neither side willing to back down over territory rights, this situation has wide ranging serious implications.

Written and presented by Ann Salter