The article explores the combination of science and diplomacy through examining workshops and projects related to the management of natural resource conflicts in the East Sea. Those are Unofficial Workshops on Managing Potential Conflicts in the East Sea, Maritime Security Conferences and the Marine Biodiversity Project in the East Sea. The purpose of analysing these workshops and projects is to find out about their characteristics, activities and contribution in the process of creating or promoting the ideas for cooperation in disputed areas. Through unofficial channels, those workshops and projects somewhat lessen the political pressure during the process of interaction and dialogue between the parties. Based on the results of learning about those workshops and projects, the article presents the thoughts of linking science with diplomacy in sovereignty issues of Vietnam.