(VOVworld) – On Thursday the UN Security Council opened a debate on sexual violence under the chairmanship of Dina Kawar, Permanent Representative of Jordan to the UN and President of the Security Council for April. Ambassador Nguyen Phuong Nga, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the United Nations, said ASEAN pledges its best effort in fighting sexual violence and expanding the role of women in international peace and security issues. Ms. Nga welcomed the progress made in implementing resolution 1325 on women, peace, and security, but noted that, despite recent improvements, ASEAN is deeply concerned about a rise in conflict-related sexual violence that threatens the well-being of women and girls around the world. It is particularly alarming to sexual violence, including abduction, sexual slavery, rape, and forced marriage, used by extremist groups as a tactic of war, she added. A broad approach to empowering women is needed, she said, adding that political reconciliation, rule of law, socioeconomic development, and poverty eradication are the foundation for sustainable opportunities for women and girls.