Vietnam calls for peaceful settlement of international disputes

His remarks were made on October 12 during a discussion held among the Legal Committee (the Sixth Committee) of the UN General Assembly’s 76th session on the rule of law at both national and international levels, with the event featuring the participation of 100 member countries and observers.

He therefore stressed that the rule of law at national and international levels plays an important role in maintaining international peace and security, socio-economic development, whilst also ensuring human rights.

With regard to the situation in the East Sea, known internationally as the South China Sea, Ambassador Quy expressed deep concern regarding recent complicated developments in the waters that have eroded trust and confidence. They have also contributed to increasing tensions and may ultimately undermine peace, security, and stability in the region.

The Vietnamese diplomat underlined the need for all concerned parties to comply with international law, especially the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982), promote trust-building, refrain from unilateral acts that may complicate the situation, and increase tensions at sea. This is in addition to settling disputes by peaceful means in accordance with the UN Charter, international law, including the UNCLOS, along with fully respecting legal processes and complying with the provisions of UNCLOS in determining maritime claims, he said.

The local diplomat went on to affirm the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) plans to fully implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and soon conclude negotiations on an effective Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC), which is in line with international law, including UNCLOS.

The nation, together with other ASEAN member states, is keen to promote peace, stability, and prosperity throughout the region, he went on to say.

The Legal Committee is therefore one of the six main committees of the UN General Assembly, consisting of representatives of all 193 UN member states, whose function is to consider legal issues. The committee is expected to discuss 24 topics, including the rule of law at national and international levels, reports of the International Law Commission, reports of the UN International Trade Law Commission, and measures aimed at eliminating international terrorism