Vietnam - a bright spot in the colorful picture of the United Nations

Vietnam is expected to further promote its ability to coordinate activities for peace and development cooperation between the UN and each region.

Recently, Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung delivered a speech at the High-Level Debate of the 68th United Nations General Assembly. This is a major political event considering Vietnam's international position as well as the complex world context.

Over 30 years under the common roof of the United Nations, Vietnam has proven to be a member with internal strength, actively integrating and interacting responsibly in solving international issues.

International delegates congratulated Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung after his impressive speech at the High-Level Debate of the 68th UN General Assembly (Photo: chinhphu.vn)

Just two years after gaining independence, Vietnam was recognized as an official member of the United Nations, which means it has a solid position under the common roof of the world. Having gone through many difficulties in the early days of peace, Vietnam has now built the image of a strong, dynamic country with many positive initiatives and high prestige in the international arena.

After nearly 30 years of renovation, Vietnam's economy has achieved many successes. Despite facing the global economic crisis, in 2012, the country's GDP still grew at an encouraging rate of 5.03%. Food security is ensured thanks to stable development in agriculture.

Along with economic growth, the quality of life has also made much progress. The proactive and creative capacity of the people has been facilitated and encouraged. The average GDP in 1988 was only 86 USD/person/year - among the lowest in the world, by the end of 2012 it had reached 1,540 USD/person/year, and is expected to reach 2,000 USD in 2015.

Poverty reduction, an important target in the UN Millennium Development Goals, has also shown impressive results. According to national standards, the poverty rate has decreased from 30% in 1992 to 9.6% in 2012, the rate of reduction is considered the fastest in Southeast Asia. The spiritual life and health of the people have improved. The Human Development Index (HDI) has increased steadily, demonstrating the harmony and balance between economic development and people's care.

With a glorious history of fighting to defend the country, Vietnam is a country that loves and desires peace. This spirit deeply influences Vietnam's foreign policy and actions. To the world, Vietnam always wishes to be a friend, a reliable partner and a responsible member of the international community.

In practice, when considering and resolving territorial disputes, especially at sea, Vietnam has consistently sought solutions through bilateral and regional dialogue mechanisms, on the basis of fundamental principles of international law.

In Southeast Asia, Vietnam actively works with other members to build a strong community and strengthen relations with partners within the Asia-Pacific framework.

By participating in the world’s largest organization, Vietnam has demonstrated its responsibility as a member state in responding to and resolving common issues of concern to the UN community, including the maintenance of peace, security and the development of human rights. Vietnam’s role as a “military advisor” was highlighted in 2008 when it held the position of President of the UN Security Council for the 2008-2009 term.

Continuing the noble purpose of the United Nations to maintain international peace and security and strengthen friendly relations and cooperation among peoples, Vietnam, together with ASEAN and Asian countries, expressed its agreement with the viewpoint of seeking comprehensive solutions to security issues at hot spots in the world and the region.

At the 12th Shangri-La Dialogue and at the 68th High-Level Debate of the UN General Assembly, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung announced that Vietnam will participate in UN peacekeeping activities in the fields of engineering and military medicine.

In a global picture of instability, contradictions and disputes, Vietnam, a positive part of the UN, is expected to continue to promote its ability to coordinate activities for peace and development cooperation between the organization and each region./.

According to VOV - DT