Vietnam And Iran In Negotiation Over Seized Oil Tanker 'MV Sothys'

Vietnam reportedly said on Thursday that it had been collaborating with Iranian authorities to come to a conclusion about the fate of MV Sothys, an oil tanker that was seized in the Sea of Oman. The incident has sparked tremendous squabbling between Tehran and Washington.

The US and Iran shared differing accounts regarding what had happened last week to the Vietnamese-flagged vessel in the Sea of Oman.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) reported that they had opposed an attempt by the American Navy to seize the tanker that was transporting its oil.

But the US defence authorities right away rejected the account and declared that Iran had seized the oil tanker and had taken it into Iranian waters.

On Thursday, Vietnam’s foreign ministry informed reporters that it would closely work with Iranian authorities to find a solution to this issue.

It also said that the tanker’s captain had confirmed on 27 October in Tehran that all 26 members of the crew were in good health and were being well-treated.

Pham Thu Hang, the spokeswoman for Vietnam foreign ministry, said that conversations had taken place on a relatively diplomatic level in Tehran and Hanoi. The purpose was to verify the information and settle the case to ensure the humane treatment and safety of Vietnamese citizens.

The foreign ministry is expected to keep monitoring the situation and collaborating with Iranian authorities to settle the case following the laws. At the same time, steps will be taken to grant legitimate rights and interests to Vietnamese citizens.

Reference: i24news.tv