Vietnam's Sovereign Boundaries in the Gulf of Tonkin

Current Affairs International Issues

Posted by newadmin on 2025-02-25 09:03:12 |

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Vietnam’s foreign ministry has recently released a map outlining its baseline claim in the Gulf of Tonkin, aiming to safeguard the country’s sovereign rights in a region characterized by ongoing maritime disputes, particularly with China. Establishing this baseline is essential for defining territorial waters and exclusive economic zones, helping to reinforce Vietnam’s claims over its maritime areas.

In international maritime law, baselines are critical reference points used to measure the extent of territorial waters. The establishment of these baselines often becomes contentious in disputed areas, such as the South China Sea. Vietnam’s newly defined baseline stretches from offshore Quang Ninh province to Quang Tri province, marked by 14 specific points. This legal framework is designed to strengthen Vietnam’s maritime claims and support its efforts in managing marine resources effectively.

This baseline is grounded in the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and aligns with the Agreement on the Delimitation of the Gulf of Tonkin, signed with China in 2000. This agreement plays a vital role in resolving disputes and clarifying maritime boundaries. Vietnam’s foreign ministry has emphasized that the establishment of this baseline enhances the country’s capacity to manage its marine resources while promoting international cooperation.

The Gulf of Tonkin, located in the northwestern part of the South China Sea, is bordered by northern Vietnam and China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Spanning approximately 126,250 square kilometers, the gulf holds significant geopolitical importance due to historical claims by both Vietnam and China, making it a hotspot for regional tensions.

The name "Tonkin" has historical roots, originating from the Vietnamese word “Đông Kinh,” which translates to “eastern capital.” Historically, this term referred to northern Vietnam during the French colonial era and reflects the area’s rich cultural and historical significance. In Vietnamese, the gulf is known as "Vịnh Bắc Bộ," while in Chinese, it is referred to as "Běibù Wān," with both terms meaning "Northern Bay."

Geographically, the Gulf of Tonkin is relatively shallow, with most of its seabed lying at depths of less than 75 meters and a maximum depth not exceeding 100 meters. This characteristic greatly influences marine biodiversity and supports economic activities such as fishing and shipping. The shallow waters play a crucial role in sustaining local fisheries, providing livelihoods for numerous coastal communities.

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