Japan has expressed support for ASEAN leaders' call for restraint and a de-escalation of tensions in the East Sea following China’s placement of its rig in Vietnam’s continental shelf and exclusive economic zone.

“Japan hope that all countries concerned will refrain from taking unilateral actions that will heighten the tensions, and act calmly in accordance with relevant international law”, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said at a press conference.

His comments came after the leaders of the 10 ASEAN member nations expressed concern over the recent incidents in the East Sea.

Suga stressed that Japan is "deeply concerned" about the heightened regional tension due to China's unilateral drilling activity.-VNA