VN, US discuss bilateral ties, East Sea issue

Deputy PM, FM Pham Binh Minh - Photo: VGP

Deputy PM, FM acknowledged the recent positive changes in the bilateral ties, particularly in the fields of economy, trade and investment and informed Viet Nam’s decision to join the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI).

He affirmed that Viet Nam stands ready to coordinate with the US to deploy concrete measures to continue strengthening the comprehensive partnership between the two countries.

During the phone call, Deputy PM, FM Minh updated the recent developments in the East Sea after China illegally placed the drilling rig Haiyang Shiyou 981 in Viet Nam’s exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. Tension in the East Sea has escalated as China has kept on increasing its vessels, including missile boats, fast attack crafts and amphibious landing ships.

He affirmed that Viet Nam has exercised restraint, stuck to dialogues, avoided conflicts and resolutely demands China withdraw the oil rig as well as all its vessels from Viet Nam’s waters because China’s move violates Viet Nam’s sovereignty, sovereign right and jurisdiction, threatens stability and maritime safety in the East Sea, and infringes the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

US Secretary of State John Kerry thanked the Deputy PM, FM for updated information on the developments in the East Sea, restated his invitation to the Deputy PM, FM to pay an official visit to the US.

The US Secretary of State welcomed Viet Nam’s decision to join the PSI, considering it as an important step forward, which reflects the country’s strong commitment to preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, enhancing global trade security and safety and peace in the Asia-Pacific region.

Regarding the East Sea issue, Mr. Kerry spoke highly of Viet Nam’s self-restraint and goodwill in using peaceful measures and dialogue channels.

Expressing his deep concern over the recent developments in the East Sea, Mr. Kerry said that China’s unilateral placement of the oil rig is a provocative act which increases tension in the region.

He reiterated the US’s stance of settling disputes in the East Sea through peaceful measures and on the basis of international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.