Mutual Interest: Engaging Vietnam on Oil Spill Prevention and Response.

摘要

Vietnam's future economic growth will require increased access to oil and natural gas in the South China Sea. Vietnam has partnered with foreign oil companies to increase production and limit Chinese intervention. This strategy, coupled with regional tension, increases the risk of an industrial accident and oil spill. An oil spill would impact the regional economy and increase tension in the region. The United States should engage Vietnam on oil spill prevention and response, to reduce the risk of an industrial accident and promote regional stability. Developing a solution, in the sensitive area of offshore oil and natural gas production, reduces tension and promotes stability in the South China Sea.