(VOVworld)- The Vietnam Committee for Asian-African-Latin American Solidarity and Cooperation on Monday issued a statement protesting China’s illegal placement of a drilling rig in Vietnam’s waters. The statement said that the Committee was extremely concerned about and resolutely opposed China’s placement of drilling rig HD 981 in waters within Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone and continental shelf, together with a large number of ships, including military vessels, as well as aircraft. The Committee proposed that  China promptly withdraw the rig and all escort forces from Vietnam’s waters and refrain from similar actions in the future. It also called on all peace-loving organisations, forces and people in Asia, Africa, Latin America and the world to urge China to put an end to unilateral moves threatening regional peace, stability and security, and respect international law and Vietnam’s lawful sovereignty.