(VOVworld) – Ho Chi Minh City’s Union of Friendship Organizations released a statement on Monday demanding China withdraw its Haiyang 981 oil rig and escort vessels from Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone. The statement said that China’s placement of the rig runs counter to ethic codes, legal regulations, and Vietnam-Sino friendship. The President of the Union, Le Hung Quoc, said: "More than ever, we must remain united and defend our maritime sovereignty. One of the most practical ways now is to develop the national economy on a par with other powerful nations to have a stronger voice". To mark this occasion, the Union raised 8000 USD to support marine police and fisheries surveillance forces.