Many of Da Nang’s fishermen said that their next offshore fishing trips to the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa waters could result in dangerous situations.  This is due to China’s illegal placement of the HD-981 oil drilling rig, and its aggressive actions in Viet Nam’s exclusive economic zone.  However, the fishermen are maintaining their determined spirit to continue fishing activities in the country’s territorial waters despite the current difficulties.

In recent days, a large number of local offshore fishing vessels, full of fish and squid, have docked at the city’s Tho Quang fishing wharf after their trips to the Hoang Sa and Truong Sa fishing grounds.  Many local fishermen said that they felt very happy with their bumper catches, and are grateful for the concern and support they have received from everyone in the mainland areas during their trips.

Fishermen feel happy with donations from the Hai Chau District Businesses’ Association

Mr Nguyen Van Bay, a local fisherman, said that he received numerous phone calls from his family and friends whilst his boat was operating near the location where China has illegally positioned its drilling rig.  He was urged to be cautious of the possibility of China’s aggressive actions, and to keep calm to avoid confrontations with Chinese ships.  He was also advised that if his boat was chased or rammed by Chinese ships, he should report the incident to those who are fulfilling law enforcement missions at sea, and other local fishing boats operating nearby, for immediate assistance.  Mr Bay said that he and 15 crew members are now busy making preparations for their next trip to the Hoang Sa waters in 3 days’ time.

The city’s Fishery Association has been actively involved in publicising the ongoing situation in the East Sea amongst the general public.  The authorised Chairman of the Association, Mr Tran Van Linh, strongly affirmed that the more difficulties local fishermen encounter, the more courageous they are.   The strong-willed fishermen always keep in their minds that their fishing trips are conducted for the purpose of earning a living to support their families, and to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty over its sea and islands.

On Thursday afternoon, 6 large-capacity offshore fishing vessels from Hai Chau District left for Hoang Sa fishing grounds.  To mark this occasion, the district’s Businesses’ Association donated 5 million VND to the owner of each vessel, as well as rice, fish sauce, instant noodles and clean drinking water.