Vietnam warns of more challenges in East Sea
(VOVWORLD) - A high-ranking Vietnamese diplomat has called on countries to fully implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC), refrain from complicating the situation and militarizing the East Sea region, and enhance cooperation in dealing with challenges.
Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Quoc Dung made the appeal at an ASEAN-China meeting on DOC implementation, which concluded in Hangzhou, China, on Saturday.
While acknowledging progress in DOC implementation and negotiations on the Code of Conduct (COC) in the East Sea, Mr. Dung shared his concern over complications in the region stemming from strategic competition between world powers and unlawful unilateral acts, particularly militarization activities, which have eroded trust and had a negative impact on peace, stability, and COC negotiations. He also warned of other challenges facing the East Sea such as illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, pollution, and plastic waste.
Vietnam will host the next ASEAN-China meeting on DOC implementation in the second half of this year.