President discusses oil rig with voters

President Truong Tan Sang yesterday clarified Viet Nam's stance on China's placement of an oil rig in Viet Nam's continental shelf.

Sang was meeting with voters for National Assembly deputies in Ho Chi Minh City's districts 1 and 3.


He said Viet Nam had asked China to withdraw its oil rig, Haiyang Shiyou-981, and escort ships from Viet Nam's continental shelf and exclusive economic zone.

He said the aspirations of the Vietnamese people had been supported by the world community.

The President said both sides had contacted each other on the issue on more than 10 occasions, during which Viet Nam reiterated its national sovereignty over the area.

Voters suggested Viet Nam file proceedings against China at an international tribunal if China "refused to stop its brazen acts in defiance of international law and Viet Nam's sovereignty".

On the anti-Chinese riots that damaged foreign companies in several localities, the President said that lawbreakers would bear full responsibility.

Referring to recent high-profile corruption scandals, voters underscored the need to close loopholes in financial management in State-owned enterprises.

Sang said wrongdoers faced severe punishments, and asked for a closer public watch over State agencies.