Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh speaks at the meeting. Photo: VGP

In his speech, Mr. Minh said the defeat of the fascists and aggressors in the Second World War, and indeed in all wars and conflicts, proved that actions driven by expansionism, militarism and the thirst for conquest and dominance can never bend the will of nations to fight for their independence and freedom.

He added that the principles of the UN Charter, particularly those of sovereign equality, territorial integrity, non-use of force and peaceful settlement of disputes, have proven to be pivotal in preventing another disastrous world war and maintaining sustainable peace. This was echoed at the Security Council earlier this year, as the Council itself “reaffirmed its commitment to an international order based on international law as the indispensable foundation of a more peaceful, prosperous and just world,” Minh said.

On this occasion, Minh paid tribute to those who fought and sacrificed in Europe, Asia and Africa, and the people of the former Soviet Union.