Vietnam guarantees a peaceful, stable environment for cooperation and development

Vietnam is a peace-loving country deeply rooted in a tradition of humanity. Having fought numerous wars in its quest for independence and unification, Vietnam has a deep appreciation of the value of peace. It encourages friends and others around the world to value and work toward a more peaceful world.

Vietnam's peace-loving tradition

The history of Vietnam is a history of staunch struggles against foreign invaders to defend its sovereignty. Peace has always been the ultimate aspiration of the Vietnamese people. In a 1954 interview with an Indian news agency, President Ho Chi Minh said his goal was to "promote peace, unity, independence, and democracy throughout the country". He said “Vietnam is ready to cooperate sincerely with Vietnamese individuals and organizations and others who share these values, regardless of political or religious beliefs.”

Guided by Ho Chi Minh’s thoughts on peace, Vietnam’s leaders have consistently emphasized their commitment to peace, stability, and sustainable development worldwide and urged for conflict cessation and respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of countries. They advocate for upholding the law, respecting the UN Charter and international laws, and peacefully resolving disputes. Vietnam calls on all parties to settle their conflicts through dialogue and negotiation. Vietnam does not take sides. It chooses justice and fairness.

At a recent working session with the Committee of Party Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, General Secretary and President To Lam said: “The highest aim of Vietnam’s diplomacy in the new era is to safeguard national interests, promote a strong Party and a strong, prosperous socialist Vietnam with an important role in global politics, economy, and civilization, and ensure the people’s wealth and happiness. Vietnamese diplomacy must protect national interests, serve the people, and foster peace, independence, and social progress in the region and the world.”

Vietnam is a contributor to global peace and stability

Vietnam’s modern view of peace extends beyond national independence, territorial sovereignty, and national security to encompass environmental sustainability, human security, social justice, and a humane lifestyle.

Since joining the United Nations in 1977, Vietnam has been an active player in global affairs, contributing to the UN’s efforts by twice serving as a non-permanent member of the Security Council, participating in peacekeeping missions, and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Vietnam also holds a seat on the Human Rights Council for the 2023-2025 term, further solidifying its role on the international stage.

Former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Dang Dinh Quy, said: "Of the UN agencies, only the UN Security Council is tasked with maintaining world peace and security. Only the decisions of the UN Security Council are binding on all members. Most countries with sufficient capacity want to sit on the UN Security Council. Participating in the Council, Vietnam contributed to resolving issues of world peace and security. It performed well in the role of Chairman of the Council. All of these contributions have been recognized by the international community."

Peace is a constant aspiration of mankind. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Vietnam's consistent policy of ensuring a peaceful and stable environment for cooperation and development is an important contributor to global peace and stability.