VietNamNet Bridge – A source from the Vietnam Coast Guard has confirmed that China’s HD-981 oil rig is being pulled by transport and escort vessels in the East Sea near the coast of Vietnam, Tuoi Tre Daily has reported.

China's HD-981 oil rig.

The oil rig is moving from north to south in the East Sea and has passed the 15th parallel.

Shortly after receiving information about the movement of the Chinese oil rig, vessels of the Vietnam Coast Guard and Fishery Administration have tracked the movement of the rig.

However, the source of Tuoi Tre also said the movement of this oil rig is normal as it is moving on international waters towards the Indian Ocean.

It is reported that the rig is being pulled into the Indian Ocean to conduct exploratory drilling under a contract with a Southeast Asian country.

In early May 2014, China illegally deployed this oil rig in Vietnam’s economic exclusive zone and continental shelf for the purpose of oil and gas exploratory drilling. On July 15, China withdrew the oil rig from Vietnam’s waters.

PV