Vietnam emphasizes the importance of maintaining regional peace and stability through dialogue, cooperation and respect for international laws, said Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Manh Cuong.

In a message to the 17th South China Sea (East Sea) International Conference today (November 3), Cuong said that this year’s theme, “Unity amid Uncertainties”, reflects both the complexity and aspiration of the current global context.

Vietnam remains committed to an independent, self-reliant and cooperative foreign policy rooted in peace and international laws, the deputy minister said.

“The world today is more fragile than ever,” he said. “Conflicts, wars and the erosion of multilateral principles have challenged the global order built after World War II. Even the most dynamic regions, including the Asia-Pacific, are facing growing uncertainties and the East Sea mirrors these broader shifts.”

He added that uncertainties also opens opportunities for countries to strengthen unity through cooperation and dialogue.

“Vietnam values peace and stability, supports the central role of international law, especially the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982), and commits to peaceful dispute settlement and responsible management of differences,” said Cuong.

As one of the first 60 countries to ratify the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) in June 2023, Vietnam will continue to support multilateralism and the rule of law, he added.

Seema Malhotra, Minister for the Indo-Pacific at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, said that the East Sea remains vital for global trade and regional prosperity.

She reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, calling for all disputes to be resolved peacefully and in accordance with the UNCLOS 1982.

Malhotra said that the UK–Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has created new momentum for cooperation in areas such as maritime security, technology and the blue economy.

The UK will continue to support ASEAN’s central role in maintaining stability and openness across the Indo-Pacific, she added.

The 17th South China Sea International Conference, held on November 3–4 in the central coastal city of Danang, gathers nearly 50 international and Vietnamese speakers, more than 300 participants and 11 ambassadors representing about 40 countries and territories.

Over the past 16 years, the conference has evolved into one of Asia’s leading forums on maritime security and cooperation.

This year’s event includes a special dialogue among ambassadors in Vietnam on “Shared Responsibility for Peace”, focusing on possible ways to prevent maritime tensions and promote collaboration.

The Young Leaders Program, themed “The Power of Youth: Strengthening Unity to Overcome Uncertainties”, brings together young researchers and professionals to share ideas on maritime governance and sustainable ocean development.

Throughout the conference, discussions cover major-power competition, advances in marine science and ASEAN’s role in maintaining regional stability. Participants agree that cooperation based on international law remains the cornerstone of peace in the East Sea.

Held in Danang, one of Vietnam’s most dynamic coastal cities with a strategic location in the central region, the event also highlights the city’s commitment to international cooperation, maritime research and sustainable growth.

Nguyen Hung Son, Director of the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, said that the forum plays a crucial role in maintaining dialogue and reducing risks in a fast-changing world.

“In a time of major shifts and uncertainties, dialogue is essential to build understanding, strengthen trust and prevent miscalculation,” he said. “Shared rules and behavioral norms connect nations and help sustain stability.”