Rather than concentrating solely on exploiting resources, Vietnam will move toward effective governance and sustainable use of its maritime space, underpinned by science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation.
When marine spatial governance is implemented through effective cross-sectoral coordination, strengthened by science and technology and supported by expanded international cooperation, the sea will become not only a resource to be exploited but also a long-term development space for the nation.
Responding to a reporter's question about recent clashes around Bai Co May (internationally known as Second Thomas Shoal) in the East Sea, Hang said Vietnam urged the parties concerned to act with restraint, respect the sovereign rights and jurisdiction of coastal states over their exclusive economic zones and continental shelves as established in accordance with the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and fully and effectively implement the DOC.
Once fishermen understand the regulations, trust law enforcement forces and know they can count on timely help at sea, running VMS, keeping logbooks and carrying proper documentation will no longer feel like box-ticking for inspections.
The Vietnam Maritime and Waterway Administration, Vietnam Register, and provincial construction department were instructed to coordinate with the Border Guard, Coast Guard, public security and local authorities to determine the cause of the accident, deal with its aftermath, identify and fix any state management lapses, offer support to victims and their families, and report regularly on the investigation’s progress.
Together with the Ca Mau – Cai Nuoc and Cai Nuoc – Dat Mui expressway projects, the Hon Khoai route forms part of a trio of key infrastructure developments expected to strengthen regional connectivity, boost economic growth and reinforce the safeguarding of Vietnam’s southwestern maritime frontier once completed.
The vision of a strong maritime nation will be reflected in green ports, offshore wind farms, thriving coastal communities, restored mangrove forests, sustainable coastal cities, resilient island outposts and generations of Vietnamese equipped with ocean knowledge and a deep sense of responsibility for the nation’s maritime future.