The incident involving a collision between official ships of China and the Philippines at Co May Bank has caused concern for Vietnam, which has called for restraint from both countries. The Foreign Ministry spokesperson expressed deep concern over the incident that occurred on June 17 in the Second Thomas Shoal area between the two nations.
Vietnam is requesting all parties involved to act in accordance with international law, respect sovereign rights, and jurisdiction over exclusive economic zones and coastal areas as established by UNCLOS. The country also urges all parties to abide by the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea, adhere to international regulations on maritime safety, and resolve disputes peacefully.
The Philippine navy accused China’s coast guard of dangerous behavior that resulted in injuries to Philippine sailors. However, China claimed that the Philippine ship ignored warnings and collided with a Chinese ship that was moving normally. They described their actions as professional, restrained, reasonable, and legal.
The contested area of Second Thomas Shoal is located in the East Sea and controlled by the Philippines but also claimed by China. The Philippines have maintained an outpost on an old warship BRP Sierra Madre at Co May Bank since 1999, relying on supplies from the mainland. The incident has raised tensions in the region, and Vietnam continues to urge all parties to exercise restraint and work towards peaceful resolutions.
