On May 22, 2014, the fourth term General Congress of Hòa Hảo Buddhism issued a message to Hòa Hảo Buddist deacons and followers at home and aboard on Vietnam’s sovereignty in the East Sea, the message stated: 

1. To vehemently oppose China’s illegal placement of an oil rig in Vietnam’s continental shelf and exclusive economic zone.

2.To demand China strictly implement commitments in accordance with the international law and respect Vietnam's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity; withdraw its oil rig and military vessels and facilities from Vietnam’s waters.

3. To support the viewpoint of the Government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, resolutely protect the national sovereignty,  support the Prime Minister’s Telegram No. 697/CD-TTg dated May 15, 2014 on order and security assurance by implementing the tasks “Encourage the people to not commit violations against the law and not follow lawbreakers; work together to protect the order and security, develop production and business, improve living standards, and together with other parts of the country protect the sovereignty of Vietnam in accordance with Vietnam’s laws and international laws.”

4. To launch in congress and among Hòa Hỏa Buddhist followers movements for helping victims of China ships, supporting marine police and fishermen who come to the sea front everyday and night for protecting Vietnam’s sovereignty.

HDT