Vietnam calls for restraint amid US leader’s Taiwan visit

Vietnam continues to follow a « One-China policy » and calls on all parties to not escalate tension in the Taiwan Strait, the foreign ministry said Wednesday.

« Vietnam wishes for all relevant parties to restrain themselves, not escalate tension in the Taiwan Strait, positively contribute to the maintenance of peace and stability, and strengthen cooperation and development in the region and the world, » Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokeswoman Le Thi Thu Hang said Wednesday.

She said Vietnam resolutely follows the « One-China policy, » which recognizes Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan as part of China.

Her statement came as the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, is visiting Taiwan, the highest-ranking U.S. official to do so in 25 years.

The visit escalated tension between the U.S. and China, with Beijing considering the act as provocative and Washington’s betrayal of its « One-China policy. »

China said Pelosi’s visit seriously damages peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, « has a severe impact on the political foundation of China-U.S. relations, and seriously infringes upon China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, » Reuters reported.

Pelosi said in a statement shortly after landing: « Our congressional delegation’s visit to Taiwan honors America’s unwavering commitment to supporting Taiwan’s vibrant democracy. »

« America’s solidarity with the 23 million people of Taiwan is more important today than ever, as the world faces a choice between autocracy and democracy. »

The Chinese military has been put on high alert and will launch « targeted military operations » in response to Pelosi’s visit, the defence ministry said.

By Vu Anh & Phan Anh – VnExpress.net – August 2, 2022