Mr. President,
It has been a year since the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine, but Viet Nam is saddened to see little hope in bringing it to a close sooner rather than later.
Despite the passage of time, the situation in Ukraine has regrettably not shown any sign of de-escalation.
The consequences of the conflict are devastating, with immense loss of life and destruction of infrastructure and resources for countries.
The impacts of the conflict are felt globally, especially for the most vulnerable groups.
The prospects of negotiations seem beyond reach.
The conflict has negatively affected the region and the world, and at the same time, hampered efforts aimed at promoting international cooperation and addressing global challenges.
If the situation persists, chances of peace are even farther away.
It is all the more disheartening at a time when the world should work collaboratively for peace and development.
Billions of dollars have been spent on wars while resources are lacking for peace, development, SDG implementation and climate change adaptation.
Mr. President,
We reiterate that it is essential to promote peace, security, stability and cooperation through upholding international law and the United Nations Charter, including fundamental principles of respect for independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, and refrainment from the threat or use of force.
All disputes should be resolved by peaceful means, through comprehensive and durable solutions.
We urge parties concerned to put an immediate end to the hostilities and avoid actions that may lead to further escalation.
We also call upon parties concerned to urgently resume peaceful dialogue and negotiations to achieve a comprehensive, just and lasting peace in Ukraine, taking into account the legitimate interests and needs of the parties, in line with international law and the United Nations Charter.
These are the most pressing priorities at hand.
The international community should redouble support for these efforts.
Only by doing so, can international and regional peace, security and stability be maintained.
Furthermore, focus must be given to protecting the safety and security of civilians, responding adequately to the urgent humanitarian needs of those impacted by the hostilities and safeguarding civilian facilities in Ukraine, in particular civilian infrastructure.
In this process, international assistance is crucial.
We urge the UN, Member States and international partners to continue joining hands and stepping up humanitarian assistance to those impacted by the conflict in Ukraine.
Viet Nam supports international efforts and initiatives, including those by the UN and Secretary General, to bring all parties together.
In this vein, results of ongoing initiatives such as the Black Sea Grain initiative should serve as the foundation for finding a comprehensive solution to the conflict.
Within our capacity, we re-emphasize our readiness to make contributions to diplomatic efforts and to the reconstruction, recovery and assistance in Ukraine.
I thank you./.