Co-hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and ITLOS, the event brought together more than 70 delegates from 15 Asian countries, along with representatives from Vietnamese ministries, agencies, and foreign diplomatic missions.

In his opening remarks, ITLOS President Tomas Heidar said the seminar is part of a global outreach initiative to raise awareness of dispute settlement mechanisms under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), with ITLOS playing a central role.

He praised Vietnam for its strong connection to the sea and for being among the first countries to sign and ratify UNCLOS and related agreements. Vietnam has also taken the lead in signing the BBNJ Agreement on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biodiversity beyond national jurisdiction.

Vietnam has also taken the lead in signing the BBNJ Agreement (Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction), which aims to conserve marine biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction.

President Heidar emphasized that the dispute settlement mechanism is one of UNCLOS’s major achievements, ensuring the Convention’s effective implementation. Since its establishment, ITLOS has handled 30 cases and issued three important advisory opinions.

Permanent Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Minh Vu reaffirmed Vietnam’s adherence to international law, its commitment to peace and cooperation at sea, and its proactive role in promoting international partnerships for sustainable development. He noted that the seminar takes place as Vietnam marks the 50th anniversary of national reunification, the 80th anniversary of National Day, and the 80th anniversary of its diplomatic service.

He underlined that UNCLOS 1982 provides the comprehensive legal framework governing all maritime activities, while ITLOS plays a key role in advancing dispute resolution in line with international law.

With its long coastline, Vietnam actively participates in international forums, incorporates UNCLOS into domestic law, and promotes its universalization through concrete actions.

Vietnam has also nominated a candidate for the position of ITLOS judge, showing its commitment to contributing expertise and leadership to the development of international maritime law.

The two-day seminar running from May 5–6 features three sessions focusing on ITLOS’s jurisdiction and procedures, landmark rulings, and a roundtable discussion among regional experts.

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