Vietnam Reaffirms Goodwill in Adhering to 1982 UNCLOS

Vietnam has reaffirmed its commitment to the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and called for disputes in the East Sea to be resolved through peaceful means, cooperation and full respect for international law, diplomatic processes and legal mechanisms.
July 13, 2026 | 14:00
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Spokeswoman for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Việt Nam Phạm Thu Hằng (Photo: Việt Nam News))
Spokeswoman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam Pham Thu Hang (Photo: Viet Nam News)

Responding to reporters' questions on July 12 regarding Vietnam's comments on the 10th anniversary since the ruling was issued by the Arbitral Tribunal constituted under Annex VII of the 1982 UNCLOS in the case between the Philippines and China, Spokesperson of the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang stated:

"Vietnam's clear and consistent stance is that maritime disputes must be resolved by peaceful means, with respect for diplomatic and legal processes, without the threat or use of force, and in accordance with international law, particularly the 1982 UNCLOS. Vietnam consistently supports the settlement of disputes concerning the interpretation and application of the Convention in accordance with its provisions."

She reaffirmed that the 1982 UNCLOS constitutes the sole legal framework that comprehensively and fully provides a framework governing the scope of maritime entitlements

"As a coastal state bordering the East Sea and an active member state to the 1982 UNCLOS, Vietnam remains committed to fully complying with the Convention. Vietnam also calls on all parties concerned to fulfill their legal obligations under the Convention, including defining maritime claims and exercising maritime rights, while respecting the legitimate rights and interests of other states as provided for under the Convention."

She added that all parties should strengthen cooperation and make tangible contributions to maintaining peace, stability, security, safety, freedom of navigation and overflight, and the order in the East Sea in accordance with international law.

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