Vietnamese General Secretary and President To Lam emphasized the need for greater international cooperation and adherence to international law during his speech at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Addressing global challenges, To Lam outlined four priorities aimed at fostering global stability and development.
To Lam’s primary focus was on restoring trust among nations by grounding international relations in the principles of the United Nations Charter and international law. He advocated for inclusive and sustainable development, responsible governance of emerging technologies, and a reinforced role for the United Nations in global affairs.
The Vietnamese leader called for nations to engage in dialogue to manage differences, prevent conflicts, and uphold national sovereignty and territorial integrity. He underscored the importance of protecting civilians and respecting international humanitarian law during conflicts.
Highlighting the role of technology, To Lam stressed that advancements in artificial intelligence and digital transformation should bridge development gaps instead of widening them. He urged for transparent, inclusive, and accountable governance of technology, with a greater role for developing countries in international rule-making.
To Lam also reiterated Vietnam’s support for reforming the United Nations to better reflect the interests of developing countries and improve its effectiveness. This includes potential reforms to the General Assembly, Security Council, and Secretariat.
On regional matters, To Lam affirmed Vietnam’s commitment to resolving disputes peacefully in line with international law. He reaffirmed the country’s dedication to multilateralism, cooperation within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and increased participation in UN peacekeeping missions.