Vietnam Urges Restraint in South China Sea Clashes, Cites International Law

Vietnam has called for restraint and adherence to international law following recent clashes at Vanguard Bank (Bãi Cỏ Mây) in the South China Sea. At a regular press briefing on July 23, 2026, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Phạm Thu Hằng urged all parties involved to exercise self-control and act in accordance with international law.

“

Vietnam proposes that all parties concerned exercise restraint, behave in accordance with international law, respect sovereign rights and jurisdiction over the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf of the coastal state, established in accordance with UNCLOS 1982.

Hằng stressed the importance of respecting sovereign rights and jurisdiction over exclusive economic zones and continental shelves, as established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982. She also called for the strict and full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) and for creating a conducive environment for negotiations on a Code of Conduct (COC) in the region. The spokesperson emphasized the need to comply with international regulations on maritime and aviation safety and to resolve differences peacefully, without resorting to force or the threat of force, thereby contributing to regional peace and stability.

Responding to questions about discussions on the South China Sea at the 59th ASEAN Foreign Ministers Meeting (AMM-59) in the Philippines, Phạm Thu Hằng affirmed that ASEAN member states and their partners reiterated the priority of maintaining ASEAN's unity, self-reliance, and central role. They also emphasized the commitment to implementing decisions from the 48th ASEAN Summit and accelerating the development of the ASEAN Community, while realizing the priorities of the 2026 ASEAN Chairmanship.

“

ASEAN and its partners all emphasized the importance of freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea; respect for international law, peaceful resolution of disputes on the basis of international law, especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982.

Discussions also covered international and regional issues of common concern, including the South China Sea. ASEAN and its partners underscored the significance of freedom of navigation and overflight, respect for international law, and the peaceful resolution of disputes based on international law, particularly UNCLOS 1982. Both ASEAN members and China reaffirmed their commitment to completing substantive and effective negotiations on a Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea in 2026, ensuring it aligns with international law, especially UNCLOS 1982.

“

ASEAN and China have also affirmed their efforts to complete negotiations on a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) in 2026, which will be substantive and effective, in accordance with international law, especially UNCLOS 1982.