Statement by Vietnam Permanent Representative to the UN on humanitarian situation in Ukraine
Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang reaffirmed Viet Nam's readiness to work with other Member States in humanitarian efforts for Ukraine in a UN General Assembly's emergency special session held in New York on March 24.
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The following is the full text of the statement by the Permanent Representative of Viet Nam to the United Nations Dang Hoang Giang at the resumed 11th Emergency Special Session of the General Assembly on the situation in Ukraine, New York, March 24-25.
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| Permanent Representative of Viet Nam to the United Nations Dang Hoang Giang speaks at the special session of the General Assembly on March 23. |
Mr. President,
Viet Nam has consistently underscored the importance of respect for international law and the United Nations Charter. It is our longstanding position that all international disputes must be settled by peaceful means, in accordance with the fundamental principles of international law and the Charter of the United Nations. These include in particular the principles of sovereign equality, respect for independence and territorial integrity of states, and refrainment from the threat or use of force.
From our decades of wars, Viet Nam understands firsthand the devastation of conflict, violence and the resulting aftermath. We therefore earnestly share the grave concerns of the international community over the armed conflict in Ukraine, especially its humanitarian consequences. People have lost their lives. Millions have to leave their homes. Among them are thousands of Vietnamese who have chosen to build a life in Ukraine. Houses and properties, including those of foreign nationals in Ukraine, even schools and hospitals have been destroyed. Many cannot foresee the return of the normal life of yesterday.
Against that backdrop, it is imperative now to exercise utmost restraint and immediately cease the use of force to avoid further casualties and losses, as called for by Foreign Ministers of ASEAN since 3 March. Civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected. Humanitarian assistance and relief must be accelerated and facilitated. The safety, security and evacuation of refugees, including foreign nationals, must be ensured and safeguarded.
In this regard, we are heartened by the humanitarian efforts by the United Nations, relevant countries, including those in the region and other international partners in the last few weeks. The concrete measures by the Secretary-General to galvanize support for humanitarian relief for the people are of utmost necessity.
We call for further contribution by member states and international partners toward this end, including to support the UN flash appeal issued recently. Viet Nam will contribute to these efforts, within our own capacity.
Mr. President,
The best way to protect civilians is to end the conflict. The road to peace must inevitably lie in continuing dialogue between parties concerned. We emphasize the crucial need to end hostilities, reach a ceasefire and find a peaceful and long-term settlement to the conflict, on the basis of international law and the Charter of the United Nations, taking into account the legitimate concerns of all sides.
We also urge parties concerned to comply with their obligations under international law, including facilitating and expanding the safe, rapid and unimpeded humanitarian access and delivery of essentials, especially medicine and food, to all those in need, including foreign nationals in and around Ukraine.
Viet Nam reaffirms our readiness to work with other Member States to alleviate the humanitarian consequences and promote diplomacy and dialogue.
I thank you.
(Source: Vietnamese Permanent Mission to the UN)
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