Vietnam Slams China’s Fishing Ban in East Sea: A Violation of Sovereignty and Rights

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang has reiterated Vietnam’s stance against China’s fishing ban in the East Sea, which she says violates Vietnam’s sovereignty and jurisdiction over the Hoang Sa archipelago. Ms. Hang emphasized that Vietnam’s position regarding China’s fishing ban has been consistent over the years, and she called on China to respect Vietnam’s rights and sovereignty over its waters.

The spokesperson’s statement came after reports emerged that Chinese officials had issued an “annual fishing ban” that included the East Sea, East China Sea, Bohai, and Yellow Sea from May 1 to September 16. This ban covered areas from the 12th parallel to the north of Taiwan island, including the Hoang Sa archipelago, which is illegally occupied by China.

China’s unilateral imposition of an annual fishing ban on fishermen from other countries is a recurring issue that has been met with criticism from Vietnam and other countries affected by the ban. Many have argued that such a ban is not only illegal but also disruptive to regional peace and stability.