Vietnam emphasises obligation to solve disputes peacefully at UNSC debate

Ambassador Nguyen Phuong Nga, Head of Vietnam’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations

This main principle of international law is clearly set forth in Chapter VI of the Charter of the United Nations, which provides for diplomatic and legal measures and processes with a view to a pacific settlement of the dispute, Nga stated.

The Vietnamese representative also highlighted the role and contributions of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to strengthening dialogue, friendly and cooperative environment, promoting peaceful solutions to the disputes in the East Sea in accordance with international law, the UN Charter and the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea and, at the same time, ensuring the implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) in its entirety and the early conclusion of an effective and legally binding Code of Conduct (COC).

“As a candidate for a non-permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council for the term 2020-2021, Vietnam will spare no efforts to uphold international law and make contribution to the Council’s noble endeavors to maintain international peace and security,” Nga told participants.

Themed “Upholding International Law within the Context of the Maintenance of International Peace and Security”, the UNSC open debate attracted delegates of over 70 member states.

Delegates agreed that international law plays an indispensable role in preserving the rule-based international order, and serves as a foundation for international peace and security.

However, the respect for international law is facing numerous challenges. Flagrant violations of international law have been seen in many parts of the world, including power politics, unilateral measures, imposition, violation of sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of states, interference into countries’ internal affairs, threat to use or use of force.

In this context, the international community, especially the UN Security Council, must continue to uphold and promote the compliance with the international law, and the implementation of Security Council resolutions.

Many countries emphasised the role of the International Court of Justice and other international legal mechanisms as well as the importance of following the court’s rulings in addressing disputes, preventing conflicts and protecting peace.

They also said that the UN Security Council needs to intensify cooperation and promote the important role of regional organisations in building trust, preventing conflicts and solving disputes peacefully.