General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam and State President To Lam stressed the importance of current actions and how the world behaves will matter to its future.
| General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam and State President To Lam spoke at the Summit of Future, the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly held at the UN Headquarters in New York, the US on September 22. Photos: VNA |
The Vietnamese leader delivered a speech at the Summit of Future, the first high-level debate of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79) held at the UN Headquarters in New York, the US on September 22 (local time), the Vietnam News Agency reported.
He said human development has seen remarkable progress, with human intelligence transforming the world and enhancing life in countless ways. Yet, humans are also responsible for many of the challenges we now confront, including climate change, pandemics, resource depletion, and the creation of weapons of mass destruction.
In this regard, “At this very moment, the choices we make will define our future,” the Vietnamese leader stated.
“Amidst rapid technological advancements, prioritizing the world’s sustainable development goals and human well-being is essential. Scientific progress should promote social advancement, benefit humanity, and empower individuals, continually improving lives for current and future generations,” To Lam said.
Scientific and technological advancements should foster collaboration instead of being weaponized against nations, undermining the global aspirations for peace, development, justice, and equality. These innovations should prioritize economic growth, creating fair and civilized societies, eliminating poverty, and enhancing the quality of life.
Therefore, he recommended boosting investment in medical research, education, digital and green transformation, and solutions that benefit the public. At the same time, it should limit research into destructive weapons to focus instead on promoting peace, stability, sustainable development, and equality among nations and peoples globally.
| Overview of the high-level debate when President To Lam delivers a speech. |
He highlighted the need to strengthen solidarity, cooperation, and mutual respect, adhere to international law and the United Nations Charter, and resolve conflicts through peaceful means.
He said major powers must act responsibly, sharing common achievements in scientific and technological research for collective development. Meanwhile, the United Nations, and regional organizations, including ASEAN should lead the way in fostering cooperation and coordinating efforts to tackle global challenges while capitalizing on opportunities brought by scientific and technological advancements.
“We stand at a pivotal moment in history, with the opportunity to lead the world into a new phase of development, marked by progress, social justice, and improved living conditions, where prosperity, freedom, and happiness prevail in case we work for shared understanding, collective action, and effective collaboration.”
He affirmed that Vietnam welcomes the adoption of the documents at this Conference and hopes for their effective implementation. The country looks to the United Nations and international organizations to continue making strong, impactful contributions to address threats to the world’s sustainable development.
“Vietnam is committed to actively contributing to global efforts to build a peaceful, just, and prosperous world for the well-being and happiness of all people,” To Lam emphasized.
