Vietnam nominates candidate for judge at ITLOS: Deputy PM, FM Bui Thanh Son
WVR/VNA - Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thi Lan Anh, Vice President of the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, has been officially nominated by Vietnam as a candidate for judge at the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) for the 2026–2035 term.
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| Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son delivers opening remarks. (Photo: Thanh Long) |
On May 29, speaking at the nomination ceremony in Hanoi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son underscored the significance of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), describing it as the “constitution of the oceans,” while highlighting the ITLOS’s vital role in safeguarding the Convention’s integrity.
This marks Vietnam’s first-ever candidacy for a seat on ITLOS, a move that reflects the country’s consistent stance in supporting international law, multilateralism, and active contributions to global governance. The nomination also affirms Vietnam’s commitment to promoting gender equality and the role of women in international institutions.
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| Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Thi Lan Anh, Vice President of the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam speaks at her nomination ceremony. (Photo: Thanh Long) |
At the event, Dr. Anh outlined her vision and strong commitment to the rule of law at sea, pledging impartiality, integrity, and professionalism in fulfilling the duties of an ITLOS judge.
The event drew the participation of over 80 ambassadors, heads of diplomatic missions, and representatives from Vietnamese ministries and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Many expressed strong support for Vietnam’s candidacy, praising Dr. Anh’s credentials and professional achievements.
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| Diplomatic corps, participants at the event. (Photo: Thanh Long) |
Dr. Nguyen Thi Lan Anh is widely recognised as one of Vietnam’s leading experts in international law. With deep academic expertise and extensive experience in teaching, research, and public speaking on the law of the sea, she currently serves as an arbitrator under Annex VII of UNCLOS and as Vice President of the Asian Society of International Law.
She is the author and co-author numerous publications and articles in reputable international journals. She has convened multiple international conferences on regional maritime security and UNCLOS implementation. In addition, she has substaintial experience in both bilateral and multilateral affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
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