BEIJING, Sept. 17 (Xinhua) -- The China Association for Science and Technology (CAST) and the All-China Journalists Association (ACJA) Monday issued statements condemning Japan's move to "purchase" part of the Diaoyu Islands.

The Japanese government on Sept. 10 announced the "purchase" of Diaoyu Island and its affiliated Nan Xiaodao and Bei Xiaodao, despite strong opposition by China.

Chinese journalists and scientists have expressed strong indignation over and condemnation of Japan's move, according to both statements.

"(The purchase) has constituted a gross violation of China's territorial sovereignty, hurt the feelings of the Chinese people and undermined bilateral relations," the CAST statement said.

Both statements described the "purchase" as a denial of the outcome of World War II and a grave challenge to post-war international order.

"Diaoyu Island and its affiliated islets have been China's inherent territory since ancient times," the ACJA statement said.

ACJA expressed hope that Japanese journalists will actively urge the Japanese government to correct its mistakes and repair bilateral relations.

Chinese journalists and scientists firmly support the measures taken by the Chinese government to safeguard its territorial sovereignty, according to the statements. Enditem