Le Hai Binh, spokeman for the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Spokesman Le Hai Binh said despite the East Sea tensions, Vietnam has conducted normal external activities and attended international forums. Countries have expressed their support for Vietnam’s stance and resilient implementation of peaceful measures in handling the situation regarding oil rig Haiyang 981. Vietnam has sought every opportunity for dialogue with China to ease tensions.

Mr. Binh answered questions about Vietnam’s reaction to China’s Law on protecting China’s military bases which goes into effect on August 1, after which the Chinese army will be allowed to prevent foreign fishermen from entering territory over which China has unilateral claimed sovereignty. "Actions by relevant parties in the East Sea must respect international law, especially the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction of the East Sea coastal countries, and not complicate the situation or affect peace, stability and civil activities in the region."

Mr. Binh also answered questions on escalating tensions in Iraq. He said Vietnam supported the global efforts and the Iraqi government to resume stability to ensure Iraq’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Regarding the Japanese cabinet’s agreement to reinterpret Japan’s Constitution to allow the country to send troops abroad to support its allies, spokesman Le Hai Binh said Vietnam cared about the situation and hoped Japan, as an influential country, would contribute to regional peace and stability.