During the event, the two sides discussed in detail their cooperation and mutual support in maritime law enforcement.
The Commander of the Vietnam Coast Guard noted that in recent years, the force has taken strong measures against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, while ensuring the sustainable development of Vietnam’s fisheries sector.
He added that in September, a European Commission (E.C.) inspection team is scheduled to conduct an on-site review regarding the possible removal of the “yellow card” warning on Vietnamese seafood exports. He expressed hope that Australia would voice stronger support for Vietnam on this matter.
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Lt. Gen. Le Quang Dao hands over a souvenir to Rear Admiral Brett Sonter. |
Highlighting the importance of international cooperation in addressing today’s challenges, General Dao said the Vietnam Coast Guard has signed bilateral cooperation agreements with maritime law enforcement agencies of Cambodia, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, China, Japan, South Korea, India, and the United States. Currently, the Vietnam Coast Guard and the Australian Border Guard are actively working toward the drafting and signing of a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on bilateral cooperation.
In addition, the two sides discussed areas of cooperation in training, counter-terrorism at sea, and combating illegal maritime migration.
Rear Admiral Brett Sonter shared that the Australian maritime law enforcement force faces eight major threats in the course of its duties, with the most frequent being illegal migration by sea, illegal fishing, and maritime drug-related crimes. He added that the increasingly complex nature of transnational crime requires the country to strengthen cooperation with regional partners.
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Delegates in a joint photo |
He expressed his wish that the Vietnam Coast Guard and the Australian Border Force would soon conclude the signing of their bilateral MoU, which would provide a framework for the two sides to step up exchanges of experience, information sharing, joint training, and mutual support in maritime law enforcement.
Translated by Tran Hoai