Vietnam hails hunger prevention efforts in Ethiopia

The UN Security Council (UNSC) held an informal interactive dialogue on June 15 to discuss the humanitarian situation in the Tigray region of Ethiopia.

The event featured the participation of Mark Lowcock, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, David Beasley, the executive director of the World Food Programme, and Ato Mitiku Kassa, commissioner of the National Disaster Risk Management Commission of Ethiopia.

As part of his address, Ambassador Quy said that access to and the ensuring of humanitarian aid has yet to meet the current demand, especially in southwest and southern Tigray.

According to details provided by UNICEF, 33,000 children are currently suffering from serious malnutrition in inaccessible parts of Tigray, many of whom are facing the high risk of death, he added.

The diplomat went on to underline how the conflict will have a direct impact on the food supply to local people in Ethiopia, thereby resulting in a risk of hunger.

He therefore called on all relevant parties to engage in a comprehensive dialogue with goodwill and a constructive spirit, while simultaneously fulfilling their humanitarian obligations.

The Vietnamese Ambassador therefore underscored the need for the international community and the UNSC to continue supporting neighbouring countries and regional organisations, particularly the African Union, in seeking a final peaceful solution to the conflict in the Tigray region.

He noted that the country therefore backs the efforts of the Ethiopian people to achieve peace, stability, and greater development, while also highlighting the significance of fully respecting independence, sovereignty, and the territorial integrity of the East African nation.