Vietnam comments on China's inauguration of commercial center in Paracel Islands

By VNA, VnExpress January 9, 2026 | 08:19 pm PT

Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang speaks at a press briefing. Photo by VNA

Vietnam has sufficient historical evidence and legal grounds to affirm its sovereignty over Hoang Sa (Paracel) Islands in accordance with international law, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang stated.

Hang made the statement on Jan. 9 in response to reporters' questions about Vietnam's reaction to China's inauguration of a commercial center on Phu Lam Island in Vietnam's Hoang Sa in the East Sea,

"All foreign activities conducted in Hoang Sa without Vietnam's permission are completely illegal and invalid. Vietnam resolutely opposes such activities," the spokesperson said.

The Paracel Archepelago consist of more than 30 islands, coral reefs, sandbanks, and shoals. including Phu Lam Island.

Vietnam has repeatedly stated that it has sufficient legal grounds and historical evidence to assert its sovereignty over both the Paracel and Spratly Islands in the East Sea, which is known internationally as the South China Sea.