The declaration, announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, follows Resolution No. 68/NQ-UBTVQH15 dated February 14, 2025 of the National Assembly Standing Committee.

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Vietnam Coast Guards patrol in the Northern waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.

The establishment of the baseline in the Gulf of Tonkin aims to exercise Vietnam's rights and obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982 and aligns with the Law of the Sea of Vietnam 2012.

The baseline is determined in accordance with UNCLOS 1982 provisions, taking into account the Gulf of Tonkin's geographical and natural characteristics while ensuring compliance with international treaties that Vietnam is a party or member.

It serves as a legal foundation for defining Vietnam’s maritime boundaries and the extent of its maritime areas in line with the UNCLOS and the agreement on the delimitation of the Gulf of Tonkin between Vietnam and China signed in 2000. It provides a robust legal framework for protecting and exercising Vietnam’s sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction, serving economic development and maritime management, and promoting international cooperation.

Source: VNA