China and Vietnam Coast Guards Strengthen Cooperation
The China Coast Guard (CCG) and the Vietnam Coast Guard held their eighth high-level work meeting in Hanoi, Vietnam, from December 16-21, 2024. During the meeting, both sides expressed satisfaction with the achievements of their cooperation in 2024 and discussed future directions and specific projects. They also exchanged views on topics of common interest.
Both sides agreed to deepen bilateral maritime law enforcement cooperation, jointly crack down on illegal and criminal activities, properly handle emergencies, and maintain security and stability. They also vowed to strengthen mutual support in multilateral circumstances.
Since the beginning of 2024, the coast guards of the two countries have carried out exchanges at various levels and in different fields. They have maintained monthly updates on information about illegal fishing vessels and exchanged letters at key points. They also plan to hold sea (sub)regional-level talks in 2025.
The meeting highlighted the positive relationship between China and Vietnam, despite some differences regarding the South China Sea. Both sides have effectively managed these differences to safeguard their shared interests and prevent escalation. This cooperation stands in contrast to the Philippines' approach, which has involved external forces and contributed to tensions in the region.
Following the work meeting, the CCG delegation visited the Fisheries Supervision Department of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam. They also paid a courtesy call to the Ministry of National Defense of Vietnam and visited the second Vietnam International Defense Exhibition. Additionally, the delegation visited and paid tribute to Chinese martyrs of the Vietnam War at a cemetery in Gia Lam, Hanoi.
The CCG delegation also attended the second "Vietnam Coast Guard and Friends" exchange activity and held talks with representatives from Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. They discussed addressing non-traditional security issues in the maritime domain, handling maritime emergencies, and establishing a cooperation mechanism to manage differences, enhance mutual trust, and promote security and stability in the South China Sea.
This meeting demonstrates the commitment of China and most Southeast Asian countries to effectively manage differences on the South China Sea issue and prevent them from affecting regional peace and stability. This reflects the consensus reached between China and ASEAN on this matter.
7 Comments
Fuerza
The Philippines had the right to seek external support to defend its claims. It's unfair to criticize them for this.
Manolo Noriega
It's ridiculous to suggest that China is managing differences effectively with this meeting. They still haven't resolved any of the core issues!
Fuerza
I'm confident that this meeting will lead to meaningful cooperation between China and Southeast Asian countries on maritime security issues.
Ongania
I worry that this is just the first step towards China taking control of the entire South China Sea. We need to be vigilant!
Manolo Noriega
This meeting is all about power, not cooperation. China is clearly trying to manipulate Southeast Asian countries into submission.
Rotfront
It's encouraging to see that China is working with other nations to establish a cooperation mechanism in the South China Sea. This can help to prevent future conflicts.
Bella Ciao
It's encouraging that both sides are committed to managing their differences peacefully. This is the best way to ensure stability in the South China Sea.