From 28 to 31 December 2008, the meeting between the two Heads of Government-level negotiation delegation on land border demarcation between Vietnam and China was held in Hanoi . The two sides discussed and agreed to resolve all outstanding matters on demarcation and markers placement.

Pursuant to the 1999 Treaty on Land Borderline signed between the Socialist Republic of Vietnam and the People’s Republic of China, proceeding from the two peoples’ fundamental interests of the development of the traditional friendship between Vietnam and China, , taking into thorough consideration each other’s concerns, striving to minimize negative impacts on the livelihood of people living in border areas between the two countries, the two sides conducted negotiations in the friendly and open manner and reached solution acceptable to both sides to complete the demarcation and markers placement on the entire land border line between Vietnam and China in accordance with the agreement between the two countries’ leaders. This success was made thanks to the great support and close guidance of the two countries’ leaders, relentless efforts of the two Government–level negotiation delegations as well as of experts and representatives of relevant agencies and border provinces.

The completion of the land border demarcation and marker placement between Vietnam and China is a historic event in Vietnam – China relations. Accordingly, for the first time, the two sides have clearly defined the land border with a system of modern markers, creating new opportunities for national development in each country, especially the expansion of economic cooperation and friendly exchanges between border localities, and laying firm foundation for the building of Vietnam – China border into a border of peace, friendship and long-term stability. The demarcation completion is a vivid demonstration of a comprehensive and strategic partnership between Vietnam and China under the motto of sixteen words and in the spirit of four goods, thus making active contribution to peace, stability and development in the region.

The two sides committed to work for an early completion and signing of a Protocol on demarcation, a Treaty of land border management regulation and other relevant documents with a view to translating the Vietnam-China Land Border Treaty into reality, contributing to the continued expansion of the traditional friendship between Vietnam and China. Together with the completion of demarcation, the two sides undertook to work with each other closely to maintain peace and stability for mutual development in border areas. The two sides also agreed to organize a ceremony to celebrate the successful completion of the demarcation at an appropriate time.

Joint Statement: On the completion of the demarcation and markers placement on the entire land border line between Vietnam and China