(VOVworld)-National Assembly Vice Chairwoman Tong Thi Phong has emphasized that peace and security are the prerequisite for sustainable development. Madam Phong told the annual hearing between the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the UN in New York on Monday that ASEAN countries are working to ensure respect for international law, the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) toward a Code of Conduct (COC) in order to resolve the East Sea issue.

National Assembly Vice Chairwoman Tong Thi Phong (3rd row, 4th from right) attends the opening ceremony of the IPU-UN hearing on February 13 (Photo:Nguyễn Hữu Hoàng-VNA)

She said as a coastal country, Vietnam holds an important position in international sea routes but is vulnerable to climate change and sea level rise. Ms. Phong stressed that Vietnam attaches special importance to the marine economy and the protection of the marine environment. Vietnam is ready to join forces with the international community in safeguarding the environment and securing effective and appropriate exploitation of marine resources together with protecting peace, security and national sustainable development, the Vietnamese National Assembly Vice Chairwoman added.

Ms. Phong called on countries to honor their obligations in line with UNCLOS, ensure maritime security and safety, settle disputes through peaceful means in accordance with international law, and adhere to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization’s Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries.