China demanded to withdraw vessels from Vietnam’s territorial waters

• China’s vessels halt survey in Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone
• Vietnam hands diplomatic note opposing China’s military drills
• China’s actions violate Vietnam’s sovereignty within EEZ: US Congressman

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang made the statement on August 16 in response to reporters’ questions about the Chinese vessels’ resumed violation of Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. 

She said that according to relevant agencies’ information, on August 13, geological survey vessel group Haiyang Dizhi 8 and some escort vessels of China returned to and encroached on Vietnam’s waters. 

The waters fully belong to Vietnam’s sovereign right and jurisdiction defined by the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Vietnam has contacted the Chinese side to protest China’s recurrence of grave violations, the official said.

Vietnamese relevant agencies continue adopting measures to enforce sovereignty, sovereign right and jurisdiction in accordance with Vietnamese and international law. 

The country reiterates its respect for peace, security, and the rule of law in the East Sea and its goodwill to settle disputes through peaceful means, the spokesperson said, adding that Vietnam always treasures and wishes to foster friendly relations with China for the benefits of the two countries and peoples, and for peace, stability, and security in the region and the world as a whole, and at the same time it is determined to resolutely and consistently protects its legal and legitimate rights and interests, Hang said

Vietnam calls on countries concerned and the international community to make positive contributions to maintaining peace, stability, and cooperation in the East Sea, the region, and the wider world, the spokesperson added.