Ambassador Giang made the statement at the UN General Assembly’s annual plenary debate on oceans and the law of the sea, which coincided with the 30th anniversary of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) entering into force.

The Vietnamese diplomat expressed concern about recent tensions and incidents in the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea) that have affected regional peace and security and run counter to UNCLOS.

Underlining Vietnam's principled stance in supporting the settlement of all disputes by peaceful means, in accordance with international law, including UNCLOS, Ambassador Giang asked relevant countries to fulfill their obligations under UNCLOS fully and in good faith, fully and effectively implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC), exercise restraint, build trust, resolve disputes peacefully, and respect diplomatic and legal processes.

Vietnam always respects the rights of coastal states in creating their own maritime laws in accordance with UNCLOS, and demands respect for the sovereignty and legitimate rights of other coastal states.

Vietnam reiterates its commitment to fully implementing the DOC and continues discussions with other countries towards the completion of an effective, substantive Code of Conduct in the East Sea in accordance with international law, especially UNCLOS.