51.   In the latest bout of tensions over the South China Sea, China accused the Philippines Thursday of breaking international law by laying claim to a disputed island.

52.   In the informal meetings, Japan has been rejecting Russian demands to pay for fishing rights, arguing that would amount to recognizing Russian sovereignty over the disputed islands.

53.   Iran inaugurated a power plant last April on another disputed island at the mouth of the Gulf, Greater Tunb, which the UAE also claims.

54.   It accuses Saudi Arabia of building roads and constructing military posts on its territory, and occupying tiny but strategic disputed islands in the Red Sea.

55.   It has also stationed missiles on the disputed islands.

56.   Jacinto said the research ship will not pass through the disputed islands.

57.   Japan officially lodged a protest with South Korea Friday, demanding that Seoul stop its plans to build marine facilities on a disputed island in the Japan Sea.

58.   Japan, which sparred with China last year over disputed islands northeast of Taiwan, also will attend.

59.   Japan says that fishing in the disputed islands by a third country undermines its sovereignty.

60.   Japanese lawmaker stakes claim to disputed islands.