Speaking at a press briefing on May 3, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang addressed reporters' questions regarding Vietnam’s stance on the presence and activities of China and the Philippines at Hoai An Reef, Tri Le Reef, and Cai Vung Reef - features within Vietnam's territory in the Truong Sa (Spratly) archipelago.

“The position of Vietnam has been consistently and clearly affirmed,” Hang stated. “Vietnam has sufficient legal basis and historical evidence to assert sovereignty over the Spratly Islands in accordance with international law, including sovereign rights and jurisdiction over maritime zones as defined under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).”

The spokesperson emphasized that any unauthorized presence on these features by other parties constitutes a violation of Vietnam’s sovereignty, complicates the regional situation, and runs counter to the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) - a document signed by ASEAN and China - as well as ongoing efforts to negotiate a Code of Conduct (COC) in the region.

Vietnam has called on all involved parties to respect its sovereignty, refrain from actions that escalate tensions, and adhere to international law. The country also urged strict compliance with the DOC and emphasized the importance of working collectively to maintain peace and stability in the East Sea.

Furthermore, Hang reiterated that Vietnam remains committed to resolving maritime and territorial disputes, including those involving the Spratly Islands, through peaceful measures and diplomacy.

She confirmed that Vietnam has lodged formal diplomatic notes and conducted bilateral communications with the countries involved, protesting their recent unlawful activities in the area of Hoai An Reef and other features under Vietnam’s jurisdiction.

Tran Thuong