Vietnam calls for immediate end to attacks against civilians in Ethiopia

Ambassador Dang Dinh Quy, head of Vietnam’s Permanent Mission to the UN, made the statement
during the UN Security Council (UNSC)’s meeting held on July 2 aimed at discussing the ongoing situation in the East African country.

The local diplomat expressed his grave concerns over the recent situation in Tigray, particularly the huge impact conflict has had on the daily lives of millions of people, as well as the need to achieve peace and stability in the region.

He therefore called for full adherence to international humanitarian law, with it being vital to protect civilians and key infrastructure, whilst not obstructing humanitarian access.

Ambassador Quy suggested that all concerned parties should strive to promote dialogue and reconciliation, as well as seeking long-term and suitable measures, including placing the interests of civilians above all else, he said.

The Vietnamese diplomat went on to welcome the ceasefire recently declared by the Ethiopian Government and expressed a wish for all parties to reach a long-term and comprehensive ceasefire. He therefore urged all relevant parties to take the opportunity to join in dialogues and avoid actions that could deepen conflicts and differences, adding that they should exercise self-restraint, not interfere into Ethiopia’s internal affairs, and deal with issues through peaceful means.

Moving forward, the international community, including the African Union, should continue assisting parties in promoting dialogue, building trust, and offering humanitarian assistance as a means of bringing people’s lives back to normal for peace, reconciliation, and national reconstruction.

He emphasized that the activities of concerned parties and the international community’s support should be in line with international law and the UN Charter, for the sake of peace, independence, sovereignty, reunification, and the territorial integrity of Ethiopia.

African nations within the UNSC also underlined the importance of respecting independence and sovereignty of Ethiopia, as well as the role of regional countries and organizations.