 The U.S. government dismissed the declaration, and a senior member of the Clinton administration initially stated that while it would be illegal for the United States to board the ship for inspection, the United States would continue efforts to persuade China to recall the ship.On August 20, 1993, after being sieged for three weeks at international waters, the ship was allowed to "take on fuel and water ... to ensure the safety of the vessel and crew" upon consistent request from the shipping company.A fresh water ship registered at the United Arab Emirates brought fresh water, vegetables and fruits.