During a regular press conference on 3/7, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Pham Thu Hang addressed questions regarding a Chinese survey vessel operating without authorization in Vietnam's exclusive economic zone.
"Any research or survey activities conducted by foreign entities within Vietnam's exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, as defined by the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, without Vietnam's permission, violate Vietnam's sovereignty and jurisdictional rights," Hang stated.
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Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Pham Thu Hang. Photo: Giang Huy |
Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Pham Thu Hang. Photo: Giang Huy
The spokesperson added that Vietnamese authorities are closely monitoring developments in the South China Sea and are taking appropriate measures in accordance with international and Vietnamese law to protect Vietnam's legitimate rights and interests.
According to Marine Traffic data, a Chinese survey vessel departed Hainan Island mid-last month, traveled south into the South China Sea, entered Vietnam's exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, and then proceeded towards the Spratly Islands.
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The South China Sea and Spratly Islands. Graphic: CSIS |
The South China Sea and Spratly Islands. Graphic: CSIS
Ngoc Anh
