In response to reporters’ questions about Vietnam's reaction to the wrongful act, deputy spokesman for the Vietnam Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang, during a press conference on November 6, stressed, "Once again we strongly assert our sovereignty over Hoang Sa (Paracel) and Truong Sa archipelagos.”
"All activities of the parties in this area without the consent of Vietnam are illegal, and null and void. We resolutely oppose." the spokesperson emphasized.
Regarding Vietnam’s participation in the 22 nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Beijing, China from November 9-11 and the ASEAN Summit in Myanmar on November 12, the official said the country will make positive contributions to the maintenance of peace, stability, maritime and aviation security and safety in the East Sea on the basis of respecting international law, as well as sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction of coastal states.
Speaking of the collaboration between the Foreign Ministry and the Ministry of Health on Ebola prevention, Hang said the two ministries will issue updates and guidelines to Vietnamese representative offices abroad, especially in Ebola-affected countries, so they can warn Overseas Vietnamese on how to protect themselves against the fatal disease.
