Vietnam concerned about recent developments in East Sea: Diplomat
Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the United Nations, has expressed concern that recent developments in the East Sea could affect peace, security and development.
New York (VNA) – Ambassador Dang H💙oang Giang, PermไanentRepresentative of Vietnam to the United Nations, has expressed concernthat recent developments in the East Sea could affect peace, security anddevelopment.
Addressingthe 33rd meeting of States Parties to the 1982 United Nations Conventionon the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) which took place in New York from June 12-16,Giang affirmed that over the past four decades, the UNCLOS, referred to as the"Constitution for the Oceans," has provided a legal frameworkregulating all activities at sea. The Convention and its implementation agreementshave laid a foundation for cooperation and actions by nations, regions, and theglobal community in maritime affairs. The ambassador highlighted Vietnam's efforts in implementing the UNCLOS, including the NationalStrategy on Climate Change until 2050. Asone of the founding members of the UNCLOS Group of Friends, Vietnam reaffirmsits commitment to the Convention and the preservation of its universality, integrity,and full implementation, Giang said. ReiteratingVietnam’s stance on the settlement of disputes by peaceful means in line withinternational law, especially the UNCLOS, he affirmed that respecting thesovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction of coastal states over their territorial waters established by the Convention is a prerequisite for maintainingand ensuring peace, security, and prosperity in the East Sea. Onthis occasion, head of the Vietnamese delegation called on all relevantcountries to exercise restraint and refrain from engaging in activities thatcould complicate the situation or escalate tensions.
Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang at the event (Photo: VNA)
Ata discussion on the report of the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea(ITLOS), the Vietnamese delegation stressed that the ITLOS has well performed its roleas the judicial organ established under the UNCLOS and acknowledged thecapacity-building programmes for developing countries conducted by the ITLOS.Furthermore, given the increasing challenges and emerging issues at sea, therole of ITLOS as the guardian of the integrity and comprehensiveness of theConvention becomes increasingly important. TheVietnamese side hoped that the ITLOS would seriously consider the request of thePacific Island States for opinions on climate change and international law,thereby clarifying the obligations of countries in protecting the marineenvironment while considering the legitimate rights and interests of developingnations. They also announced their intention to submit the national position onthis matter to the ITLOS. Regardingthe report of the Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS), theVietnamese delegation highlighted the need for improvements in the CLCS'sprocess of examining submissions on the limits of the continental shelf beyond200 nautical miles to ensure the full and effective implementation of the UNCLOS.This is especially important in determining the "outer limits of thecontinental shelf" to proceed with the implementation of the Agreement onthe Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of AreasBeyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) after its adoption and entry into force inthe near future. The meeting reviewed the UN Secretary-General’s annual report whichcalled for urgent efforts to address challenges faced by developing countries,including building capacity, developing a sustainable blue economy, andinnovative financial solutions. Delegatesunderlined the need to comply with the UNCLOS and enhance regional and globalcooperation in maritime and ocean-related affairs to address challenges such asmarine pollution, climate change, rising sea level, contributing to realisingsustainable development goals related to the conservation and sustainabledevelopment of the oceans and marine resources. Onthis occasion, UNCLOS member states elected seven judges for the ITLOS for the 2023-2032tenure./.
Leaders of member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have reaffirmed the importance of maintaining and promoting peace, security, stability, safety, and freedom of navigation in and overflight above the East Sea.
A conference themed “East Sea and the Sovereignty of Vietnam” was held in Paris on June 10, attracting the participation of many Vietnamese and foreign scholars.
Ambassador Vu Ho, acting head of SOM ASEAN Vietnam, voiced concerns about the ongoing complicated developments in cyber security, climate change, and East Sea issues at the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) held on June 14 in Jakarta.
The launch of Thanh Nien (Young People) newspaper in 1925, even before the founding of the Communist Party of Vietnam, is considered a testament to President Ho Chi Minh’s strategic foresight and strong belief in the guiding power of the revolutionary media.
New Zealand is currently one of Vietnam’s most important partners in the region, marked by a high level of political trust, strong and reliable defence and security cooperation, and increasingly open economic, trade, and investment ties.
Party General Secretary To Lam stressed that the Central Public Security Party Committee must be fully aware of the extremely important role of the People's Public Security force in the country's new revolutionary phase, so as to guide each branch and level of the force as the nation undergoes transformation.
Addressing concerns over university education spending, Son explained that as public universities gain greater autonomy, the Ministry of Finance has scaled back recurrent state funding. “Over the past decade, as autonomy has increased, the State's support has steadily declined”, he noted
Lao Minister of Foreign Affairs Thongsavanh Phomvihane affirmed that the presence of Vietnamese press offices in Laos vividly demonstrates the great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation between the two nations, as the press is not only a means of communication but also an important bridge for spreading consciousness about the history, values, and strategic depth of the Laos – Vietnam relationship to the people of both countries and the international community.
The country is willing to participate in collective efforts to promote cooperation and mobilise resources to advance the current priority issues of developing countries, such as trade, investment, infrastructure connectivity, making the most of scientific and technological advances for development, and people-to-people exchanges, Hang said.
During the negotiations, the US highly evaluated Vietnam’s goodwill and efforts, affirmed its appreciation for the bilateral relationship, acknowledged Vietnam’s proposals and concerns, and considered these an important basis for continuing discussions and moving towards a final agreement.
The Chairman stressed the need for stricter fiscal discipline, faster digital transformation, and more efficient management of State budget revenues and expenditures.
The ministry has instructed Vietnamese representative agencies in Israel, Iran, as well as those in neighbouring countries, to closely monitor the situation and request local authorities to ensure absolute safety for Vietnamese citizens living, studying, and working in high-risk areas.
Senior Vietnamese leaders on June 19 sent letters of congratulations to New Zealand leaders on the occasion of the 50th founding anniversary of Vietnam – New Zealand diplomatic relations (June 19, 1975 – 2025).
The Party chief attributed the achievements in the first half to the continuous, direct, and comprehensive leadership of the Politburo and the Secretariat of the Party Central Committee, and the close and effective coordination of relevant ministries, sectors and localities.
General Nguyen Tan Cuong, Chief of the VPA’s General Staff and Deputy Minister of National Defence reaffirmed Vietnam’s unwavering gratitude for Cuba’s invaluable support during its struggle for independence and nation-building efforts, and pledged to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Cuba as it navigates current challenges.
Vietnam is a country with which Russia shares a special relationship. In the 1950s and 60s, particularly during Vietnam’s struggle for independence, the two countries forged a deep bond. While much has changed over time, the friendship and cooperation between our nations have endured, said Russian President Vladimir Putin.
For 50 years, Vietnam and New Zealand have worked together to uphold peace and prosperity for their peoples and the region. The friendship, cooperation, and mutual understanding Vietnam and New Zealand nurtured have grown from a seed into a deeply rooted, strong, and thriving tree, she stressed.
Since the Strategic Partnership was established in 2020, Vietnam and New Zealand have witnessed steady growth in the relations. Beyond the remarkable 40% increase in bilateral trade over five years, political relations and multilateral interactions, particularly within the CPTPP framework, have remained highly positive.
Known as the “four pillars for Vietnam’s ascend”, the Pobiburo's Resolutions 57, 59, 66, and 68 focus on cultivating a robust national entrepreneurial spirit, unlocking resources for innovation across society, and accelerating the development of digital economy, knowledge-based economy, green economy, and circular economy, propelling Vietnam forward rapidly and firmly on the path of modernisation and international integration.
Minister of Finance Nguyen Van Thang cleared up deputies' concern regarding how to spur socio-economic growth, renew traditional growth motives and establish new momentum for development.
Vietnam proposed several priorities: narrowing the digital divide, strengthening women’s leadership in the digital economy and AI governance, and mobilising sustainable financing for gender equality initiatives in line with each country’s national priorities and context. Vietnam also advocated for genuine women’s participation and leadership across all areas of public life.
At the meeting (Photo: VNA) 
Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang at the event (Photo: VNA) 
