A large vehicle belonging to a Japanese right-wing group rammed the front gate of the Chinese Consulate General in Osaka early Friday, but no one was injured in the event, according to the Chinese Embassy.

The incident occurred at about 3:35 AM, setting fire to the vehicle and badly damaging the gate, said Chinese Embassy spokesman Huang Xingyuan.

Chinese Ambassador to Japan Wu Dawei has lodged a solemn representation to Japan and asked for a prompt and thorough investigation as well as compensation for damages.

Huang stated that this was the most serious event committed by a Japanese right-wing group against Chinese diplomatic facilities since the normalization of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1972.

Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yasuo Fukuda has apologized for the incident, Huang said.

Police have arrested the male perpetrator, who is a member of a Japanese right-wing group.

(Xinhua News Agency April 23, 2004)