"Vietnam's position on the Paracel Islands is clear and consistent. Vietnam possesses full historical evidence and legal grounds to assert its sovereignty over the Paracel Islands, including Da Hai Sam and Dao Ba Ba, in accordance with international law," Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Pham Thu Hang stated on 28/8.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Pham Thu Hang. *Photo: MoFA*

Vietnam reiterates that all foreign activities in the Paracel Islands, including on Da Hai Sam and Dao Ba Ba, conducted without Vietnam's permission, are entirely illegal and invalid.

"Vietnam resolutely protests, has issued serious diplomatic notes, and affirmed its position on this issue, demanding an immediate cessation and non-recurrence of similar activities," the spokesperson asserted.

The East Sea region with the Paracel and Spratly Islands. *Graphic: CSIS*

The Paracel Islands comprise over 30 islands, coral reefs, sand cays, and submerged banks in the East Sea. Vietnam has repeatedly stated that it possesses full legal grounds and historical evidence to affirm its sovereignty over both the Paracel and Spratly Islands.

Ngoc Anh