Mr. President,
Thank you for the timely convening of this important discussion.
1. Viet Nam aligns itself with the statements made by the distinguished representative of Malaysia on behalf the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the distinguished representative of Algeria on behalf of the Non-Aligned Movement.
We would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation to the two former Co-chairs of the Ad Hoc Working Group, H.E. Mr. Mitchell Fifield of Australia, and H.E. Ms. Egriselda Aracely González López of El Salvador, for their able leadership in steering the process of revitalization during the previous UNGA session.
Our congratulations go to H.E. Mr. Cornel Feruță, Permanent Representative of Romania and H.E. Ms. Menissa Rambally, Permanent Representative of Saint Lucia, for their appointment as the new Co-chairs. In the way forward, we wish to reassure Viet Nam’s full support and cooperation.
2. Revitalization of the work of the General Assembly is critical to the comprehensive reform of the United Nations. While encouraged by progress achieved thus far, we are mindful of the pressing need to continue the momentum in order to respond effectively and meaningfully to the wide range of emerging global challenges.
Viet Nam would like to highlight the following points:
First, we underscore the role of the General Assembly on matters of peace and security.
While it was acknowledged that the Security Council has primary responsibility in this area, it was also clearly recalled this mandate is not exclusive.
In this connection, the General Assembly should enhance its examination and discussion of issues of international peace and security in accordance with Articles 10, 11, 12 and 13 of the Charter, when the Security Council fails to address the issues.
The relationships between the General Assembly and other principal organs of the United Nations, notably the Security Council, should continue to be strengthened. Any approach to addressing the relationship between the principal organs should be one based upon cooperation and the need for balance.
Second, we emphasize the need to uphold the principle of transparency in the work of the GA. Along the same line, achievements in the selection and appointment of the UN Secretary-General should continue to be applied for future Secretary-General selection and appointment process.
We welcome the practice of handover report by outgoing President to incoming President of the GA, on lessons learnt, focusing on the importance of continuity in the transfer from President to President and of acquiring and cementing institutional memory.
On the appointment of co-facilitators and co-chairs of GA processes, while recognizing the prerogatives of the President of the General Assembly may have, we call for greater transparency, inclusivity and credibility, including by making an open call for nomination to these important positions.
Third, discussion at the General Assembly should be more result-oriented with specific outcomes, both in mid-term and long-term, so as to meet the interests and aspirations of Member States.
Upcoming discussion in preparation for the Summit of the Future and other processes should focus on identifying not only solutions but also the way, to support the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development within the UN existing budget resources and avoid duplication.
With regard to the revitalization meetings itself, we recall the programme of work shared by the Co-chairs at the beginning of the Ad hoc Working Group during the 76th and 77th sessions, which provided a useful and clear roadmap for Member states to prepare and participate in the discussion.
We hope to see a similar guideline to prepare for our discussion ahead.
Mr. President,
As the only UN organ with the representation of all Members States, the General Assembly plays a crucial role in guiding the work of the UN and upholding the UN Charter and international law.
More than ever, the UN and its GA must enhance its effectiveness and efficiency and become more fit for purpose.
Viet Nam fully supports the works of the Ad Hoc Working Group on the Revitalization of the General Assembly and will continue to engage with the Co-chairs and all Member States, towards a fruitful deliberations and concrete outcomes.
I thank you./.