Vietnam’s Baseline Claim in Gulf of Tonkin

February 24, 2025

Vietnam’s foreign ministry has recently published a map outlining its baseline claim in the Gulf of Tonkin. This move is as it aims to protect Vietnam’s sovereign rights in a region marked by conflicting maritime claims, particularly with China. The baseline is crucial for defining territorial waters and exclusive economic zones.

About Baselines and Maritime Claims

Baselines are critical in international maritime law.
They serve as reference points for measuring the breadth of territorial waters.
The establishment of baselines is often contentious, especially in areas like the South China Sea.
Vietnam’s new baseline runs from offshore Quang Ninh province to Quang Tri province, marked by 14 points. This legal framework is intended to strengthen Vietnam’s claims over its maritime zones.

Legal Framework and International Agreements

Vietnam’s baseline is rooted in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. It also aligns with the Agreement on the Delimitation of the Gulf of Tonkin, signed with China in 2000. This agreement is crucial for resolving disputes and clarifying maritime boundaries. Vietnam’s foreign ministry emphasised that the baseline enhances its ability to manage marine resources and promote international cooperation.

Geopolitical Context in the Gulf of Tonkin

The Gulf of Tonkin is located in the northwestern part of the South China Sea.
It is bordered by northern Vietnam and China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.
The gulf covers an area of approximately 126,250 square kilometres.
Both Vietnam and China have historical claims in this region, making it a focal point for geopolitical tensions.

Etymology and Historical Significance

The term “Tonkin” originates from the Vietnamese word “Đông Kinh,” meaning “eastern capital.”
Historically, it referred to the northern region of Vietnam during French colonial rule.
The name reflects the rich cultural and historical heritage of the area.
The gulf is also known as Vịnh Bắc Bộ in Vietnamese and Běibù Wān in Chinese, both translating to “Northern Bay.”

Geographic Characteristics

The Gulf of Tonkin is relatively shallow, with most of its ocean floor less than 75 metres deep. The maximum depth does not exceed 100 metres. This geographical feature influences marine biodiversity and economic activities such as fishing and shipping. The shallow waters are vital for local fisheries, underpinning the livelihoods of many communities.

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