On July 26, responding to a reporter's request for updated information regarding the Khoi Nguyen 18 vessel accident at sea, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang stated:

"According to information from Vietnam's competent authorities, the Khoi Nguyen 18 vessel, carrying 62 people, sank while operating in adverse weather conditions in the East Sea.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang. (Photo: VNA)

Immediately after the incident occurred, Vietnam's competent authorities promptly and closely coordinated efforts to reach the scene. With the support of Chinese search and rescue forces, including rescue vessels and helicopters, together with vessels operating near the accident site, Vietnam launched search and rescue operations. As of noon on July 26, 45 people had been rescued alive.

The competent authorities and fishing vessels are continuing active search efforts for those still missing and stand ready to implement rescue measures and provide timely assistance to Vietnamese citizens. The competent authorities have promptly informed the victims' families, continuously updated them on the search and rescue situation, and kept them informed of subsequent measures to bring the citizens safely back to shore.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Chinese authorities for their prompt assistance in supporting Vietnam's search and rescue efforts, and we hope that both sides will continue to coordinate closely in the search for those who remain missing."

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