Yes, it is true that Chinese ships are required to depart Vietnam’s exclusive economic zone when requested to do so by the Vietnamese Coast Guard. According to a joint statement issued by the two countries in October 2020, Chinese vessels must respect the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) of Vietnam in the South China Sea. The statement also called on both countries to refrain from any unilateral action that could increase tensions and further complicate the situation. Both countries are expected to continue to work together to ensure a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to any disputes over their EEZ.