Vietnam concerned about Second Thomas Shoal tensions
VOV.VN - Vietnam on March 9 expressed its deep concern over the recent tensions between China and the Philippines in Second Thomas Shoal of the Truong Sa (Spratly) archipelago and called on the parties to exercise self-restraint.
Vietnam is deeply concerned about the recent tensions in the East Sea that may affect peace, security, and stability in the regional waters, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang said in response to reporters’ question.
Hang said any activity in the East Sea must adhere to international law, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS); respect countries’ sovereignty, sovereign right, and jurisdiction in line with the UNCLOS; not complicate the situation or escalate tensions; guarantee the freedom of navigation and overflight; and not use or threaten to use force.
“We call on the parties concerned to exercise self-restraint, seriously implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC), resolve disputes by peaceful means, and together contribute to maintaining peace, stability, and cooperation in the East Sea,” said the spokesperson.
