Farmers protest against China’s illegal placement of drilling rig

In its announcement, the association confirmed that the action had seriously violated Vietnam’s sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction in its exclusive economic zone and continental shelf. It stated that China had seriously violated international laws, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) to which China is a signatory.

The extremely dangerous action of China has been threatening peace, stability, security and maritime safety on the East Sea, and Vietnamese fishermen’s lives. It contravenes agreements reached by high-ranking leaders of the two countries; seriously injuring the friendship between the two nations, especially between Vietnamese and Chinese farmers.

The association raised strong opposition to the wrongful and dangerous actions, insisting that China unconditionally withdraw the drilling rig and its escort ships from Vietnam’s sovereign territory, end illegal actions and inhuman behaviour toward Vietnamese fishermen on the East Sea, and not to repeat any similar action in the future.

The association showed its strong support for the efforts by the Vietnamese Government and law enforcement missions in protecting legal sovereignty by peaceful measures in line with international laws. It called on Vietnamese people to continue to go fishing offshore, contributing to the protection of national sovereignty and interests.

It also called on Chinese farmers and farmers’ organizations as well as partners all over the world to raise their voices to protect justice and international laws; insisting that the Chinese Government obey international laws and respect Vietnam’s legal sovereignty.

The Vietnam Farmers’ Association has over 10 million members and represents 70% of the country’s population and 50% of the work force. With their strong patriotism, Vietnamese farmers have made great and important contributions to national liberation./.