Historical and legal basis affirming Vietnam's sovereignty over the paracel islands

In the historical process of nation-building and national defense, the issue of establishing and protecting territorial sovereignty has always held a particularly important position for each nation and people. For Vietnam, sovereignty over the seas and islands in the East Sea, including the Paracel Islands, not only has territorial significance but is also linked to strategic interests, national security, and long-term sustainable development. Over many centuries, the Vietnamese State has continuously and peacefully established and exercised sovereignty over the Paracel Islands in accordance with the principles of international law, as demonstrated through a rich system of historical documents, administrative documents, and practical management activities throughout various periods. However, the reality of recent decades shows that the South China Sea in general and the Paracel Islands in particular are becoming hotspots of complex disputes. Especially, China's use of force to occupy the entire Paracel Islands since 1974 has created a dangerous precedent, contradicting the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter on the prohibition of the use of force in international relations. Furthermore, in recent years, China has continued to carry out a series of activities to consolidate its illegal control in the area, including the reclamation, dredging, and construction of structures on geographical features, most notably at Haisam Reef.