Socialist Republic of Vietnam

On Feb.5, 2002, MOFA'S Spokeswoman Phan Thuy Thanh answered question from Vietnam News Agency, asking for Vietnam's reaction to assertions that Vietnam made concessions in negotiating and concluding the land border treaty between Vietnam and China.

Answer:

The negotiations on border and territory issues between Vietnam and China, including the land border issue were held on the basis of respect for fundamental principles of international law as stated in the United Nations Charter and the 1970 Statement on principles of friendly relations among nations, especially principle of respect for independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of one another, equality, mutual benefit and non-interference into the internal affairs of one another.

During negotiations, Vietnam and China based on the 1887 and 1895 French-Qing conventions and attached minutes of border delimitation and demarcation as well as properly planted border markers to solve the land border issue. With regard to the areas belonging to one side according to the treaties but controlled by the other side, the latter had to give them back to the former unconditionally. With regard to border rivers and streams, the two sides solved the issue according to the following principle: the conventions shall apply to the sections which are clearly provided for by the French-Qing conventions, international practices shall apply to the sections which are not clearly provided for by the French-Qing conventions, specifically on the rivers and streams navigated by vessels, the boundary line goes along the center of the main navigational currents and on the rivers and streams unnavigated by vessels, the boundary line goes along the center of the currents or main currents.

It is necessary to affirm that the outcomes which resulted from friendly negotiations on the basis of sympathy and mutual understanding are satisfactory and equitable for both sides. The land border treaty between Vietnam and China signed in Hanoi on 30 December 1999 more clearly reaffirmed the border line established in history. The conclusion of this treaty has an important significance, laying foundations for building the Vietnam-China land border into one of peace, friendship and long-term stability. Also it was a new step forward in building a peaceful and stable environment in the region, enabling each respective country to concentrate resources on national construction and development.