Ambassador Dang Dinh Quy, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the UN (Photo: VNA)

Ambassador Dang Dinh Quy, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the UN addressed Tuesday discussion of the Legal Committee (the Sixth Committee) of the UN General Assembly’s 76th session on the rule of law at the national and international levels with the participation of 100 member countries and observers.

Regarding the situation in the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea), Quy expressed deep concern about recent complicated developments in the waters that have eroded trust and confidence, increased tensions and may undermine peace, security and stability in the region.

All relevant parties should abide by international law, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982); promote trust-building, refrain from unilateral acts that may complicate the situation, and increase tensions at sea; settle disputes by peaceful means in accordance with the UN Charter, international law, including UNCLOS; and fully respect legal processes and comply with the provisions of UNCLOS in determining maritime claims, he said.

The Vietnamese diplomat affirmed ASEAN endeavors to fully implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and soon conclude negotiations on an effective Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) which is in line with international law, including UNCLOS.