President clarifies Vietnam’s East Sea stance with voters

President Truong Tan Sang made clear Vietnam’s stance on China’s illegal placement of an oil rig in the East Sea while meeting with voters for National Assembly deputies in Ho Chi Minh City’s districts 1 and 3 on May 16.

President Truong Tan Sang made clear Vietnam’s stance on China’s illegal placement of an oil rig in the East Sea while meeting with voters for National Assembly deputies in Ho Chi Minh City’s districts 1 and 3 on May 16.

President Sang talking to voters in HCM City on May 16

Vietnam has asked China to withdraw its rig Haiyang Shiyou - 981 and escort ships from the country’s continental shelf and exclusive economic zone, meeting the aspiration of the Vietnamese people and the world community as a whole, the President said.

He elaborated that both sides have contacted each other on the issue on over 10 occasions, during which Vietnam reiterated its national sovereignty.

Voters suggested Vietnam files proceedings against China to an international tribunal in case China refuses to stop its brazen acts in defiance of international law and Vietnam’s sovereignty.

About anti-Chinese riots that caused damage to foreign companies in several localities, the President assured them that lawbreakers will bear the full responsibility and victims will receive all possible support to resume their operations.

Referring to the recent high-profile corruption scandals, voters underscored the need to close loopholes in financial management among the State-owned enterprises.

Sang said the wrongdoers have faced severe punishments, and asked for a closer public watch over the State agencies as a deterrent to any of such evils.