EU speaks about tensions in East Sea

The statement was made by Michael Mann Chief Spokesperson to High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission (HRVP) Catherine Ashton in response to a Radio Voice of Vietnam (VOV) reporter.

The EU does not take sides in disputes and claims over the East Sea but has a clear view of what needs to be done to settle conflicts and build trust.

The EU urged the concerned parties to find solutions for peace and cooperation in accordance with international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Michael Mann Chief Spokesperson to HRVP Catherine Ashton responding to a VOV reporter.

The EU wants to play an intermediary role in stabilizing regional security as the region holds a very important position in terms of economics, politics and strategy in the world.

Nearly 50 % of global cargo is transported via the East Sea, therefore, the occurrence of any incident can also affect maritime and aviation freedom, causing serious consequences to trans-Asia trade and the global economy, including Europe.

The EU is concerned about the recent developments in the East Sea involving China’s stationing of its oil rig Haiyang Shiyou- 981 deep in Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone.

It said that unilateral actions can influence the security environment in the region, namely Chinese ships ramming and using water cannons to attack Vietnamese vessels.

The EU called on the concerned parties to take tension easing measures and refrain from unilateral actions damaging peace and stability in the region and it will continue to monitor the current situation, said Michael Mann.