Vietnamese president backs two-state solution and urges end to Cuba sanctions

Vietnamese President To Lam has voiced support for Palestinians’ right to self-determination and a two-state solution, while urging the United States to lift its sanctions and energy blockade against Cuba.

Speaking at the 81st UN General Assembly in New York on Tuesday, To Lam said civilians must be protected in every conflict, international humanitarian law respected and humanitarian access ensured.

Vietnam backs Palestinian statehood

Vietnam supports the establishment of an independent State of Palestine living peacefully alongside Israel, in accordance with international law and relevant UN resolutions, he said.

To Lam also reaffirmed Hanoi’s solidarity with Cuba and its people. He called on Washington to end what he described as the “unilateral embargo and sanctions and the energy blockade against Cuba” and to remove the country from the US list of state sponsors of terrorism.

He further urged the international community to help Cuba overcome the crisis caused by sanctions.

Call for UN reform and stronger multilateralism

Vietnam’s president said international institutions must be reformed to keep pace with changing circumstances, while the fundamental principles of the UN Charter must be respected and strengthened.

Hanoi supports reforms to the UN General Assembly, Security Council and Secretariat to improve the organisation’s effectiveness and better advance global agendas and the interests of developing countries, To Lam said.

He outlined four priorities: restoring trust among nations on the basis of the UN Charter and international law; promoting equitable, inclusive and sustainable development; shaping technology governance so that progress serves humanity; and strengthening multilateralism and the essential role of the United Nations.

“All states must respect one another’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity and right to choose their own path of development,” To Lam said, adding that countries should refrain from interference in internal affairs and from threats or the use of force inconsistent with the UN Charter.