Since it was set up, the NAM has grown stronger and played a key role in dealing with regional and international issues. The purpose of the organisation is to ensure the national independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of non-aligned countries" in their "struggle against imperialism, colonialism, neo-colonialism, racism and all forms of foreign aggression, domination, interference or hegemony well as providing protection against great power bloc politics.

 To mark Vietnam’s entry to the NAM (August 26), a Radio Voice of Vietnam (VOV) reporter interviewed Fakhry Labib, Head of the Afro-Asian Peoples' Solidarity Organisation’s (AAPSO) Information Office on Vietnam’s role in the movement.

Reporter: What is your assessment of Vietnam’s role in the NAM?

Mr Labib: If I remember rightly, Vietnam was a heroic country with great leaders, President Ho Chi Minh and General Vo Nguyen Giap. The country has a glorious history with its victories over France and the US to gain national independence. These victories shaped Vietnam’s history as well as the world. We wondered why such a poor and small country could defeat French and US invaders. Vietnam is considered a shining example for colonial and invaded countries to follow.

As a NAM member, Vietnam has contributed to developing the organisation and is a source of encouragement for non-aligned countries. Its contributions and encouragement have helped many Afro-Asian and American countries to struggle for national independence and peace.

Vietnam has also contributed greatly to bilateral and multilateral forums and joint efforts to resolve regional and international issues and enhance solidarity amongst member countries.

Reporter: What has Vietnam’s role been during its current period of integration and development?

Mr Labib:  There is no denying that the NAM now has a stronger voice and plays a more active role in international forums. The NAM has ensured solidarity and stability amongst member countries and raised its status in the international arena.

The movement has contributed a lot to the global struggle for peace and security, helping to prevent nuclear wars and settle conflicts and disputes between member countries by peaceful means.

Vietnam has actively engaged in developing the movement. In history, Vietnam has set a good example of national independence for peace loving countries. During its integration and development, Vietnam has become a model of renewal and economic development.

Reporter: What should Vietnam and other NAM member countries do to make the movement grow stronger and have a greater voice in the international arena?

Mr Labib: The issues of great concern to the movement are peace, security, self-reliance independence, the right to self-determination and international cooperation in economics, culture and social affairs. Therefore, Vietnam and other member countries need to step up joint initiatives when dealing with international issues of common concern.

It is essential to promote economic development, trade, cultural exchanges, mutual trust, solidarity, dialogue and negotiations to narrow the development gap between the rich and poor nations.

Reporter: Thank you very much.