Statement from Senator Thanh Hai Ngo in response to the “aggressive” Chinese invasion of Vietnam’s territorial waters

The Honourable Senator Thanh Hai Ngo

May 14, 2014
For immediate release

“I am deeply concerned about the People’s Republic of China’s aggressive action in the South China Sea. China’s exploratory rig and 80-ship armada’s venture into waters near the Paracel and Spratly archipelagos is a gross violation of Vietnam’s sovereignty, exclusive economic rights and continental shelf.”

“The deliberate aggressions that followed China’s sea grab since May 2 remain a serious concern. China’s illegal drilling plans and blatant hostile acts against Vietnamese boats continue to threaten peace and stability in the region.”

“China must respect Vietnam’s sovereignty and withdraw its oil rig and navy from the South China Sea. Furthermore, Hanoi should not shy away from condemning Beijing’s hostile behaviour. It is the Vietnamese army and navy’s fundamental duty and responsibility to defend and protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

“Thousands of Vietnamese protesters recently took to the streets in Hanoi and Saigon in a demonstration against China’s invasion. Furthermore, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam must release all Vietnamese political prisoners who have been jailed for calling on their government to take a stronger stance against China.”

“Until China clearly demonstrates its respect for Vietnam’s sovereignty, the international community needs to unequivocally condemn Beijing’s increasingly aggressive acts. Accordingly, Vietnam should file a lawsuit before the United Nations Permanent Court in theHague in order to force China to complywith international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).”

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For more information:
613-943-1599
ngoth@sen.parl.gc.ca
www.senatorngo.com