Vietnam urges respect for Truong Sa sovereignty after China-Philippines vessel clash

The foreign ministry's spokesperson Pham Thu Hang made the statement during a press briefing in Hanoi in response to questions about Vietnam’s reaction to the clash, which occurred recently in the waters of Thi Tu.

“Vietnam has full historical and legal grounds to assert its sovereignty over the Truong Sa archipelago, which includes Thi Tu Island,” Hang emphasized, noting that the island is currently under the illegal occupation of the Philippines.

Hang said Vietnam is deeply concerned about the reports from the parties involved.

“Vietnam urges the parties concerned to respect its sovereignty over the Truong Sa archipelago, exercise restraint, act responsibly, and comply with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS),” she stated.

The spokeswoman also called on the parties to observe international maritime safety and security regulations, including the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea established by the International Maritime Organization.

Vietnam further urged all sides to contribute to creating a favorable environment for substantive negotiations on a Code of Conduct in the East Vietnam Sea, consistent with international law and UNCLOS, to promote peace, stability, and maritime security in the region.

On October 12, the Philippines accused a Chinese government vessel of using water cannons and colliding with a Philippine ship near Thi Tu Island.

China denied the accusation, claiming the Philippine vessel had made a dangerous approach.

According to AFP, this was the latest in a series of incidents between China and the Philippines in the East Vietnam Sea, a vital waterway through which more than 60 percent of global maritime trade passes.