Vladimir Kolotov, a Russian expert of Vietnamese studies

Commenting on China’s recent announcement of the establishment of the so-called “Xisha” district on Vietnam’s Hoang Sa (Paracel) archipelago and “Nanshadistrict” on Vietnam’s Truong Sa (Spratly) archipelago, Mr. Kolotov said that while the US and European countries are struggling with the Covid-19 crisis, China is abusing the situation with its attempt to advance its interest the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea). He said the move will escalate the complications, have reverse impacts, and be China’s biggest geopolitical failure. The Russian expert advised Vietnam to rally voices of other countries to bring the East Sea issue back to the legal process and use international law to resolve this problem. He said in addition to taking advantage of non-permanent membership at the UN Security Council and ASEAN Chairmanship, Vietnam should promote people-to-people diplomacy through friendship organizations.