Reporter: Vietnam will be the only representative of Asia – Pacific in the vote for non-permanent member of the UNSC term 2020 – 2021. If elected, what benefits will Vietnam have from the post?
Deputy Minister Trung: Vietnam continues to maintain the external relations policy of independence, self-control, expansion, diversification and multilateralization of international relations, actively integrating into the world with the motto “Vietnam is willing to be trusted friend and partner of all countries in the world community, striving for peace, independence and development”. Becoming a non-permanent member of the UNSC, Vietnam will join the strongest mechanism in security, peace and stability, thus making greater contribution to major world issues.
In the 2008-2009 term, Vietnam joined the UNSC with a high sense of responsibility and abiding of international laws. Therefore, as a non-permanent member of the UNSC, Vietnam can show its viewpoint on important decisions that affect many countries. Besides, we can put forth our country’s issues for the international community’s support, thus helping dialogues among related parties.
Holding ASEAN Chairmanship in 2020, Vietnam’s voice will also reflect ASEAN viewpoints, helping the UN have a clearer understanding about the region; therefore, Vietnam will contribute to regional stability.
Moreover, as a UNSC non-permanent member, Vietnam will have more experience in politics, diplomacy, security and defence, as well as skills in operation and negotiation.
Reporter: In your opinion, what is the highlight of the agenda term 2020-2021?
Deputy Minister Trung: Peace is the greatest cause of the international community and the leading task of the UNSC.
At present, peace is crucial for the development of each country, region and the world; therefore, we not only look towards peace but also strive to gain sustainable peace. As many as 70% of the agenda term 2020-2021 relates to conflicts and regional issues.
Le Hoai Trung, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs (Photo: baodautu.vn)
Reporter: What is Vietnam’s role in the agenda?
Deputy Minister Trung: Being the country going through a long period of wars, Vietnam always has the aspiration of peace and the wish to prevent wars and conflicts, in order to contribute to peace and stability in the world.
Peace is also the title that Vietnam puts forth during its candidancy as a non-permanent member of the UNSC term 2020-2021. So far, Vietnam’s viewpoint about large issues relating to peace suits the international community, international law, and is appreciated by partners.
Over the past years, Vietnam has joined the international community’s work with increasingly high position. In the 2008-2009 term, Vietnam proved itself a responsible country, had similar viewpoint with partner nations in sensible issues, and was able to contribute to the UNSC.
Vietnam has sent peacekeeping forces to South Sudan. Many places in the world such as the Middle East, South Asia and Africa have deployed peacekeeping forces to prevent conflicts, help address conflicts, and ensure stability after conflicts are addressed.
These are activities carried out in accordance with resolutions of the UNSC. Joining this activity, Vietnam reflects its responsibility as a UN member and the will of a nation desiring for peace, contributing to the world peace and satisfying the hope of the world nations.
Reporter: What do you think about Vietnam’s advantages and challenges when it carries out the mission of a non-permanent member of the UNSC term 2020-2021?
Deputy Minister Trung: Vietnam was experienced as a non-permanent member of the UNSC term 2008-2009. With its efforts, Vietnam received appreciation from international friends. Besides, the successful organization of large international meetings and events over the past time contributes to heighten Vietnam’s position on the international arena and in multilateral relationships.
However, there are challenges for Vietnam. The global situation has changed in a complex development, including security issues. Additionally, there is increasing difference and tension among large nations, which have been having influence on Vietnam.
We identify that there are a lot of issues needing addressing. Meanwhile, Vietnam’s economic scale is still small and there is limited number of people who are experienced and skilled in operating international events and lobbying.
Reporter: Thank you very much./.