Viet Nam and China frankly discussed on recent situation and differences in the East Sea, during the 12th meeting of the Steering Committee for Bilateral Cooperation via teleconference on Tuesday. 

Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh co-chairs the 12th
meeting of the Steering Committee for Bilateral Cooperation on July 21, 2020 .
Photo: VGP

The event was co-chaired by Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh and Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Expressing concerns over the recent complicated developments in the East Sea, Deputy PM, FM Minh urged the sides to well control maritime differences, take no actions that may further complicate the situation or expand disputes, respect for Viet Nam’s legitimate rights and interests, and maintain peace and stability in the East Sea.

Both sides agreed to stick to the common perceptions reached by their leaders as well as the agreement on basic principles guiding the settlement of sea-related issues signed between the two countries, and comply with international law, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

The sides also agreed to accelerate mechanisms on sea-related matters to achieve practical outcomes, fully and effectively implement he Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC), and foster talks on a substantial Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC).

Regarding trade, Minh suggested China further facilitate border trade exchanges and import more Vietnamese goods, particularly farm produce.

He also encouraged Chinese businesses to boost investment in high-tech and environmentally friendly projects while focusing on addressing obstacles of some projects being implemented in Viet Nam./.