Patrol vessel KN 466 departs port on February 5, carrying a working delegation from the Việt Nam Coast Guard Region No.3 Command on a mission to inspect combat readiness and prevent IUU fishing in Trường Sa waters. — Photo courtesy of the Việt Nam Coast Guard

HCM CITY — A working delegation from the Việt Nam Coast Guard Region No.3 Command, based in HCM City, began a maritime voyage on February 5 to inspect combat readiness, conduct patrols and controls, and prevent illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the waters near the Trường Sa islands.

The delegation, led by Colonel Lê Văn Tú, Political Commissar of the command, embarked on patrol vessel KN 466 of Fisheries Surveillance Squadron No.4.

The mission also included visits and Tết (Lunar New Year) greetings to fishing vessels operating in the waters of the Trường Sa Special Zone.

A leader of the Việt Nam Coast Guard Region No.3 Command briefs delegation members ahead of a patrol and inspection mission focusing on combat readiness, IUU fishing prevention and Tết visits in Trường Sa waters. — Photo courtesy of the Việt Nam Coast Guard

Taking place in the days leading up to Tết 2026, the voyage carried special significance, demonstrating the strong determination of the Việt Nam Coast Guard to safeguard national sovereignty, sovereign rights and jurisdiction at sea.

It also contributes to national efforts to address the European Commission’s “yellow card” warning against Việt Nam’s seafood exports.

During the mission, the delegation conducted comprehensive inspections of combat readiness among forces performing duties at sea, while organising patrols, controls and legal dissemination activities.

Fishermen were guided to strictly comply with Vietnamese laws and relevant international regulations on IUU fishing, contributing to the development of a sustainable and responsible fishing industry.

In addition, the delegation visited, extended Tết wishes, presented gifts and encouraged officers, sailors and fishermen working and living in Trường Sa waters.

A delegation from the Việt Nam Coast Guard Region No.3 Command presents Tết gifts to officers and crew of patrol vessel KN 466 ahead of a mission to inspect combat readiness and combat IUU fishing in Trường Sa waters. — Photo courtesy of the Việt Nam Coast Guard

Though modest in material value, the Tết gifts—consisting of essential supplies—reflected the care, responsibility and solidarity of the Việt Nam Coast Guard with those stationed and working at the country’s maritime frontlines.

The activities helped strengthen the all-people national defence posture combined with the people’s security posture at sea, while fostering strong bonds between the mainland and offshore forces.

They also provided motivation and confidence for officers, soldiers and fishermen to remain steadfast in their duties, production activities and the protection of Việt Nam’s sacred seas and islands. — VNS