GUANGZHOU, April 23 (Xinhua) -- A joint inspection by China and Vietnam in the sea area beyond the mouth of the Beibu Gulf concluded on Saturday, with the research vessel returning to Guangzhou.
According to a press release from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the four-month operation shows the spirit of of handling maritime differences through cooperation of the two sides.
"It is conducive to further fostering a peaceful, friendly and cooperative atmosphere at sea," said the release.
It said the move would increase political mutual trust and create necessary conditions for seeking a fundamental and permanent solution to maritime issues.
"The sea area beyond the mouth of the Beibu Gulf is rich in natural resources," said the release.
It said the two sides will learn more about the sea area through this joint inspection, improve the marine scientific research cooperation, lay a solid foundation for joint development and delimitation of the sea area, and bring tangible benefits for both countries and peoples.
It said in the future, the two sides would actively promote joint development and steadily promote the delimitation of the sea area beyond the mouth of the Beibu Gulf.