Vietnam protests Chinese construction in Paracel Islands

Vietnam has issued a firm protest against China’s unauthorized construction and reclamation activities at Hai Sam Rock and Ba Ba Island within the Paracel Islands. Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang stated that Vietnam’s position regarding the Paracel Islands is clear and consistent, asserting that the nation possesses sufficient historical evidence and legal basis to claim sovereignty in accordance with international law.

Spokesperson Hang emphasized that any foreign activities in the Paracel Islands conducted without Vietnamese permission are “completely illegal and invalid.” She noted that Vietnam has engaged in serious diplomatic communications to demand an immediate end to these activities and to prevent their recurrence.

Satellite imagery reported by Reuters and Vantor indicates that construction activities began around March and April, with recent images from mid-August showing new structures. Security experts suggest that structures on Ba Ba Island, which feature a three-pronged shape, may potentially serve as early warning radar facilities to support future developments at Hai Sam Rock.