A coalition of representatives from 18 key shipping nations has expressed concerns over the threats to maritime trade posed by escalating geopolitical tensions and the rise of a “shadow fleet.” The Consultative Shipping Group calls for enhanced international cooperation to protect navigation freedoms and ensure fair competition in the industry.
Canada’s largest icebreaker, the Canadian Coast Guard Ship Louis S. St-Laurent, reached the North Pole on August 16, 2023, contributing to a mission aimed at mapping the continental shelf and asserting Canada’s Arctic presence. The initiative, ongoing from 2024 to 2027, supports national sovereignty and scientific research in the region.
The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) established a structured legal framework for ocean governance, addressing chaotic maritime claims. It harmonizes the interests of coastal nations and maritime powers, providing a predictable system for navigation, resource use, and dispute resolution, essential for maintaining order in international waters.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in partnership with the Vietnam Society of International Law, organized a seminar on the BBNJ Agreement under UNCLOS to commemorate its 30th anniversary. Experts discussed key provisions, implementation mechanisms, and the agreement’s role in achieving SDG 14. Vietnam is actively involved in the agreement’s negotiation and preparation for ratification.
