The conference considered the UN Secretary-General’s Annual Report on “Oceans and the Law of the Sea”. The report calls for “urgent efforts” to address the challenges facing developing countries, including capacity building, sustainable ocean economies and innovative financing solutions. On the 40th anniversary of the adoption of UNCLOS, the report calls for renewed efforts by states and international organizations to enhance the full and effective implementation of the Convention and its implementing agreements.

Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Head of the Permanent Mission of Vietnam to the United Nations, Head of the Vietnamese delegation attending the conference.

Speaking at the conference, Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Head of the Permanent Mission of Vietnam to the United Nations, Head of the Vietnamese delegation affirmed that over the past 40 years, UNCLOS - with its role as the "Constitution of the Ocean" - has been the legal framework regulating all activities at sea; the Convention and its implementing agreements have played a fundamental role for cooperation and action of countries, regions and the world at sea. The Ambassador highlighted Vietnam's efforts to implement UNCLOS, including the National Strategy on Climate Change for the period up to 2050 issued under Decision No. 896/QD-TTg dated July 26, 2022 of the Prime Minister . As one of the founding members of the UNCLOS Friends Group, Vietnam continues to reaffirm its commitment to the Convention; upholding its universality, integrity and full implementation.

Regarding the situation in the East Sea, Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang reiterated Vietnam's stance on resolving disputes by peaceful means in accordance with international law, especially UNCLOS, expressing concern about recent developments in the East Sea that may affect peace, security and development. The Ambassador affirmed that respecting the sovereignty , sovereign rights and jurisdiction of coastal states in the maritime zones established under the Convention is a prerequisite for maintaining and ensuring peace, security and prosperity in the East Sea region. On that basis, the Head of the Vietnamese delegation called on all relevant countries to exercise restraint and avoid carrying out activities that complicate the situation or escalate tensions.

News and photos: VNA