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UN Secretary-General António Guterres affirmed that, in the field of cybersecurity, Vietnam has the capacity and expertise to contribute to global efforts, and is a respected country with an increasingly important role in international relations. (Photo: Tuan Minh) |
The opening ceremony for the Hanoi Convention also coincided with the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations on October 24, 1945, making the event even more significant. Could the Secretary-General share his thoughts on this coincidence?
I believe this demonstrates that 80 years after the UN began operating, the planet's largest multilateral organization remains the path for the world to collectively address global challenges.
Cybercrime is a serious challenge, causing numerous problems related to people's privacy and safety, and resulting in significant economic consequences, with losses amounting to trillions of dollars. Previously, there was no effective international cooperation mechanism to combat cybercrime.
But then, the countries acted together within the framework of the UN, and after five years of negotiations, we obtained this Convention.
That also means that, 80 years after its founding, the UN remains at the forefront of promoting multilateral solutions to the problems of our time, because no single nation can solve problems such as climate change, peace and security, or cybercrime on its own.
I believe this is clear evidence that multilateralism is still "alive" and that the UN today is as important as it was 80 years ago.
As you stated in your speech, "no one is safe until everyone is safe." So how do you assess Vietnam's role in promoting multilateralism and responding to cybercrime?
First and foremost, Vietnam today is an important pillar of multilateralism. Every day, the global economic balance is shifting: developed countries are accounting for a smaller share, while emerging economies like Vietnam are contributing more and more. This shows that the world is being rebalanced.
With its high economic growth rate and increasingly respected voice, Vietnam is an admired example – a country that endured suffering in its struggle for independence and unification, and has now become one of the world's most dynamic economies.
Vietnam enjoys great prestige in the international community and is developing its technology very rapidly. In the field of cybersecurity, where technology plays a key role, Vietnam has the capacity and expertise to contribute to global efforts, while also being a respected nation with an increasingly important role in international relations. I am very pleased to witness this signing ceremony today.
Vietnam is one of the most vulnerable countries to climate change. In September 2025 alone, we suffered four major storms, causing serious damage to people's livelihoods. Despite this, Vietnam remains committed to sustainable, inclusive growth and ensuring that no one is left behind. What are your thoughts on this commitment, Secretary-General?
Today's economic growth is strongly driven by the renewable energy revolution, along with the development of the green economy and the digital economy. I believe Vietnam has chosen the right direction by combining both of these trends.
Vietnam has taken a clear stance on climate action, committing to net-zero emissions by 2050. I believe this is a fantastic combination, one that should bring prosperity to its people while also demonstrating deep concern for our planet. This is directly linked to the vital interests of humanity itself.
As you mentioned, floods have devastating consequences, and we are also witnessing heatwaves claiming lives around the world. Meanwhile, environmental destruction causes immense suffering and severe economic damage. These two issues – development and climate – are inseparable. It's impossible to say whether we choose development or climate action. Climate action is the path to faster development.
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UN Secretary-General António Guterres speaks at the opening ceremony of the Hanoi Convention on October 25. (Photo: Thanh Long) |
Yes, Mr. Secretary-General, the digital economy and digital transformation can be powerful drivers of faster development. What are your thoughts on the Vietnamese government's vision of considering technology as a key factor for "breakthrough"?
I believe that technology is opening up major solutions to many global problems. We have seen smart agriculture and artificial intelligence bring benefits in many fields. However, along with this great potential come risks, therefore, we need appropriate regulations and standards to ensure that artificial intelligence is used for good purposes.
That is why the "Pact for the Future" and the "Global Digital Compact" have adopted the establishment of an independent international scientific council under the UN, to assess and guide the development of artificial intelligence (AI). When we called for applications, we received 600 applications. In addition, we are also organizing annual dialogues on AI with the participation of key stakeholders.
Of course, the UN doesn't directly govern AI, but we create a platform for all parties to exchange ideas and find the best solutions to maximize positive aspects and mitigate risks. I believe Vietnam is approaching this in the right direction: leveraging the digital revolution to boost growth while also paying attention to the risks and ethics of the technology. This is truly crucial in the current context.
In a 2022 interview with Vietnam Television (VTV), he stated that Vietnam is a "reliable partner" of the UN. In the current context, how does he see Vietnam continuing to play that role?
As I said, Vietnam today is a country highly respected by the international community, with an increasingly prominent position in the global economy and an active partner of the UN.
Vietnam continues to uphold that role – promoting sustainable development, upholding the rule of law, and respecting international law. Vietnam is truly an important pillar of multilateralism and a strong supporter of UN activities.
The world is facing unprecedented challenges, requiring unprecedented mechanisms. In your opinion, what further contributions can Vietnam make to the UN in the future?
Vietnam has been very active in supporting the UN's reform process. We hope that Vietnam will continue to play a strong role in discussions to help the UN operate more effectively, more efficiently, better support people in need globally, and help governments build sustainable and inclusive economic development strategies.
What message does the Secretary-General wish to send to the world from Hanoi today?
We need to overcome divisions and restore trust. Geopolitical tensions and mistrust between nations necessitate rebuilding confidence, preventing the world from being divided into opposing blocs.
We need a unified global economy, a single multilateral institutional system where all nations cooperate. We do not want the world divided into two or more small groups in chaos, where the rule of law is no longer respected.
Above all, we need trust, we need to heal divisions and build a peaceful and prosperous world.
In particular, everything happening in Vietnam today involves the participation of young people. Youth are not the generation of the future, but the generation of the present. The dynamism, creativity, and dedication of Vietnamese youth are the best guarantee for a developed, prosperous, and peaceful future for this beautiful country.
Thank you very much, Secretary-General!
Source: https://baoquocte.vn/tong-thu-ky-lien-hop-quoc-viet-nam-ngay-nay-la-mot-tru-cot-quan-trong-cua-chu-nghia-da-phuong-332368.html
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