A number of historical documents, maps and artifacts show that the Hoang Sa (Paracel) Archipelago is an integral part of Viet Nam’s territory.  Viet Nam is the only country in the world to establish and exercise its national sovereignty over the archipelago in a peaceful manner over historical periods. 

Here are some photos which prove Viet Nam’s long-lasting control over the archipelago.  They also highlight the righteous struggles made by Da Nang’s authorities and residents for their country’s legal claims over the islands.
 

The image of a lighthouse on the Hoang Sa Archipelago in 1937

Members of Vietnamese security forces attending a ceremony to salute the national flag in 1938

Digging a well in 1938

Overall view of administrative and technical agencies in 1938

One of the European maritime maps which was published between the 15th and 16 th centuries showing the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa archipelagos

The Map of Indochina Peninsula which was made in 1735 by Danvilleen proves that Hoang Sa belongs to Viet Nam

A map of China’s Qing Dynasty published in 1907 proves that the most southerly point of China is Hainan Island

A Chinese map which was published in 1917 excludes Hoang Sa

A 100m2 national flag donated by 84 year-old Pham Thi Phan from Hai Duong Province

Viewing a map at a recent exhibition on Viet Nam’s sovereignty over Hoang Sa Archipelago

A foreign visitor examining a map at an exhibition

Mr Dang Cong Ngu was appointed as the Chairman of the Hoang Sa Islands District People’s Committee on 25 April 2009

One of the entries for a contest to design the Hoang Sa (Paracel Islands) Exhibition House

One of the 90 maps which were released by China and Western countries excludes the “nine-dotted” line and Hoang Sa

A get-together for those who once served on the Hoang Sa Archipelago Honoring Mr Tran Thang for his donations of old maps which prove Viet Nam’s sovereignty over the Hoang Sa islands