Protest marches against China’s drilling rig through Japanese photographer lens

Joining the rallies of Vietnamese people in protest against China’s illegal placement of its Haiyang Shiyou-981 drilling rig in Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone taking place in major cities of Japan are two freedom photo reporters Murayama Yasufumi and Yamaoka Kiyotaka. In empathy of Vietnam’s position, both men have taken photos and talked with Vietnamese friends about China’s wrongful acts.

On May 11, the first rally took place in the county of Minato, Tokyo. More than 400 Vietnamese people marched about 1.5 km on the street.

On May 18, the second gathering was held in the district of Naka, Nagoya city, Aichi province. About 800 Vietnamese people currently studying, training and working in Japan participated in this march.

On May 25, the third protest by the Vietnamese community in Japan took place in the county of Nishi, Osaka city. The march was attended by about 600 people.

Mr. Nguyen The Huy, born in 1961, who organized the rally in the city of Osaka, told reporter Maruyama Yasufumi that the Vietnamese community in Japan are deeply angered by China’s serious violation of international laws.

“This fact is not only Vietnam’s problem but also of all Asian countries. The rally has two purposes, one is to protest against China and the second is to desire Japanese friends, who have the same problem like Vietnam, see the truth.”

The two reporters said that they would continue to participate in subsequent rallies in Japan.

Following are photos of two Japanese photographers:

Slogan of a rally in English and Japanese

A rally slogan

Freedom photo reporters Murayama Yasufumi and Yamaoka Kiyotaka

A slogan of a rally

Many young Vietnamese people studying in Japan took to                               the streets to show their patriotism

Young people hold portraits of their beloved leaders

A slogan opposes China’s U-shaped Line

Rallies take place peacefully

A large number of young people join the rallies to show their resolute  opposition to China’s wrongful actions