 Vietnamese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang (Photo: cand.vn) |
At a regular press conference on Thursday, Hang commented on recent filing of France, Germany and the United Kingdom’s joint note verbale with the United Nations: “Vietnam understands that countries share their joint aspiration and objective for peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the East Sea. To this end, it’s important to respect legal order at sea and full implementation of UNCLOS with goodwill and responsibility. Vietnam welcomes countries’ view on the East Sea in line with international law and sharesthe view in the 36th ASEAN Summit Declaration and the AMM 53’s Joint Statement that 1982 UNCLOS is the legal framework governing all activities at sea and in the ocean.”
Regarding the resumption of talks on the Code of Conduct of Parties in the East Sea, the spokeswoman said it’s a priority for the ASEAN and China following the disruption caused by Covid-19. Vietnam hoped to resume negotiation for an early finalization of an effective and efficient COC with good quality in line with international law and UNCLOS.
Concerning Singapore’s unilateral removal of border closures with visitors from Vietnam, the spokesperson said in order to enter Singapore from October 8, within 7 to 30 days prior to the arrival, visitors from Vietnam are required to submit a proposal online for approval. Upon arrival, visitors will be tested for COVID-19 and installed with COVID-19 tracing app on their personal smart phones. If the test result is negative, they are allowed to travel freely in Singapore. If they test positive and need treatment in Singapore, they have to bear all related medical costs.
Commenting on new Japanese Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide’s possible visit to Vietnam in October, Hang said that the Vietnam-Japan partnership is growing. The two sides maintain exchanges and contacts. With that spirit, we welcome Japanese Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide to visit Vietnam at a time appropriate for both sides.