Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son at the ASEAN-China Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held via videoconference on August 3, 2021. (Photo: VNA)

The Ministers pledged to continue to implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and promote negotiations for an effective and practical COC in line with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

They agreed that maintaining an environment of peace, security and stability in the region, including the East Sea (known internationally as the South China Sea), is a common concern of both ASEAN and China.

Vietnamese Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son stressed the need for all parties to show goodwill in cooperation, take responsible actions and work together for an East Sea of peace, stability, security, safety.

He affirmed that Vietnam is committed to working with other ASEAN countries and China to fully and effectively implement the DOC and welcomes the resumption of negotiations on COC, adding that Vietnam will do its best to push the negotiation process for the finalization of a practical, effective COC which is supported by the international community.

The Ministers also agreed to continue to give priority to coordination in controlling COVID-19 and mutual support in sustainable recovery.