At the UN Security Council’s interactive informal dialogue on Sri Lanka in
New York on June 5, Deputy Permanent Representative of Vietnam, Ambassador Bui The Giang shared the common concern over challenges that Sri Lanka is facing after the conflict.

“As a nation that has come out from many wars of large scale destruction, we understand the numerous challenges that Sri Lanka - a developing country with limited economic, financial and governance capacity - is now confronting in the aftermath of the prolonged conflict, ranging from humanitarian relief, landmine clearance, resettlement, infrastructure build-up, socio-economic development, to political dialogue and national reconciliation,” Ambassador Giang said.

He congratulated the Government and the people of Sri Lanka and all anti-terrorist forces on this landmark victory which will help open up a new era for the Sri Lankan people to live in lasting peace and stability, and to concentrate all their available resources on national development.

He welcomed the visit to Sri Lanka by the UN Secretary-General two weeks ago immediately after the end of the conflict, describing it a confirmation of the critical role of the United Nations in coordinating international assistance to the post-war efforts aimed at peace-building and socio-economic development in Sri Lanka. He also said that the joint statement between the UN Secretary-General and the Government of Sri Lanka holds promises and serve as an important foundation for a sustainable political solution to the challenges of the country.

He stated that Vietnam supports further enhanced and practical international assistance to and cooperation with the Government and people of Sri Lanka as the owner of their process for peace, stability, prosperity and development. He reaffirmed Vietnam’s willing to contribute to this process, as before.