China calls for peaceful dialogue after Vietnam’s leader accuses it of violating its sovereignty
- Vietnamese president Nguyen Phu Trong steps up rhetorical salvoes from Hanoi in wake of Chinese activity in disputed area of South China Sea
Beijing has called for peaceful dialogue to resolve disputes in the South China Sea after Vietnam stepped up its rhetorical attacks, accusing Beijing of violating its sovereignty.
“We hope Vietnam will continue to manage maritime differences through dialogue and negotiation, to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea through practical actions,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a press briefing on Wednesday.
The statement followed a warning earlier in the week by Vietnamese President Nguyen Phu Trong, who said the country would “never compromise” its sovereignty, but added that a “peaceful environment” for development should be maintained.
Hanoi has repeatedly accused China of violating of its sovereignty since research ships started operating in waters Vietnam claims as part of its exclusive economic zone in July, and one observer said the president’s intervention was partially intended to assuage public sentiment.
Other analysts said that China’s low-key response was down its greater naval capability and preference for using other channels to resolve conflicts.