Vietnam embodies the UN ideals of peace, security, development: António Guterres

THE HANOI TIMES — UN Secretary-General António Guterres said that Vietnam’s path aligns with the UN ideals of peace, security, development and human dignity when he was in the country for the Signing Ceremony of the UN Convention against Cybercrime (the Hanoi Convention) opened today [October 25].

Guterres made the remarks at the meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at the National Convention Center in Hanoi during his official visit to Vietnam and his attendance at the ceremony.

Guterres commended Vietnam for successfully hosting the Convention’s signing ceremony, describing it as further proof of the country’s active and responsible contribution to global peace, security and sustainable development.

He highlighted Vietnam’s “signature initiatives” in peacekeeping, climate action and South–South cooperation, which have strengthened its standing on the international stage.

“The story of Vietnam aligns with the ideals the United Nations stands for – peace, security, development and human dignity,” Guterres said, adding that the country’s achievements in these areas have earned it broad respect from the international community.

The Secretary-General affirmed that the UN will continue accompanying Vietnam in its next development phase, particularly in delivering on climate commitments, advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reforming the global financial architecture.

He said that Vietnam would maintain its constructive engagement in fostering a more balanced and equitable world based on international law and multilateral cooperation.

PM Chinh warmly welcomed the UN Secretary-General’s return to Vietnam, emphasizing that his visit reinforces the enduring partnership between Vietnam and the UN, from post-war reconstruction to the era of renovation and global integration.

The prime minister reiterated that supporting and cooperating with the UN has always been a core principle of Vietnam’s foreign policy.

He stressed that the country will continue making more practical contributions to the UN’s operations and called on the international community to uphold the organization’s central role in addressing global challenges and strengthening solidarity.

Chinh noted that hosting the signing ceremony of the Convention against Cybercrime reflects Vietnam’s commitment to collective efforts for peace, security and sustainable growth.

Despite global uncertainties, Vietnam has maintained political and social stability, achieved positive economic recovery with projected growth of around 8% in 2025 and pursued its vision of becoming a high-income developed nation by 2045.

“Peace and sustainable development at the national level lay the foundation for peace and prosperity in the region and the world,” stated the prime minister.

The two leaders agreed to enhance cooperation, dialogue and peaceful dispute resolution while deepening ties between the UN and ASEAN. Both expressed confidence that the Vietnam–UN partnership will continue to thrive, contributing to a peaceful, stable, just and sustainable world.

Earlier, Party General Secretary To Lam received Secretary-General Guterres at the Party Central Committee’s headquarters. The meeting took place in what both sides described as a warm and trusting atmosphere.

General Secretary To Lam reaffirmed Vietnam’s strong support for multilateralism and its readiness to participate more deeply in UN peacekeeping operations and efforts to address issues of development, human rights and climate change.

Guterres praised Vietnam’s remarkable progress from a nation ravaged by war to a model of growth and international integration.

He described Vietnam as “a pillar of South–South cooperation” and a key player in promoting a multipolar, stable and just world order grounded in international law.

Both leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation, promote dialogue and resolve disputes by peaceful means. They also emphasized the importance of closer coordination between the United Nations and ASEAN.

“The world needs countries like Vietnam – committed, constructive and confident – to help shape a fairer, more sustainable international order,” Guterres said.

UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Executive Director Ghada Waly also praised Vietnam’s leadership at the Hanoi Convention signing event. She called it “a landmark achievement” that proved the power of multilateral cooperation in tackling global challenges.

At the signing ceremony, she said: “The road has been long and challenging, but today’s Convention shows that multilateralism still works,” Waly said, thanking Vietnam for hosting the event and pledging continued UNODC support as the Hanoi Convention is implemented worldwide.