(VOVWORLD) - The world needs to step up policy coordination, take collective action, and champion international cooperation and multilateral efforts in global governance in the fight against COVID-19, said Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc at a UN special session on COVID-19 that opened Thursday in New York.
Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (Photo: VNA) |
As a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 2020-2021 term, Vietnam reiterated its support for the UN Secretary General’s call for a global ceasefire, lifting of unilateral sanctions, and provision of humanitarian assistance in the fight against COVID-19. Mr. Phuc said the interests of people should form the core of all policies and actions, stressing the top priority should be to protect the lives and health of people and ensure universal and affordable access to vaccines and treatments.
The prime minister urged countries to be committed to the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development 2030 and climate action, especially assisting developing countries financially, commercially, and technically.
Mr. Phuc said, “Vietnam has managed to contain COVID-19, ensured social security, and restored growth. Let me take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to the UN and international organizations for the meaningful support and cooperation extended to Vietnam. As the 2020 ASEAN Chair, Vietnam has worked with fellow member states in putting forth initiatives to fight COVID-19. We have proposed initiatives within the UN framework and engaged in discussions with other members of Resolutions and documents to enhance international cooperation in COVID-19 response.”
PM Phuc said Vietnam has donated medical supplies to countries hard-hit by the pandemic, shared its experience, and made donations to international COVID-19 funds.
The PM said he believes the international community will emerge triumphant by harnessing the will and power of each nation and strengthening solidarity and cooperation, adding that Vietnam will contribute all it can to this noble endeavor.