While confirming the importance of mediation in settling disputes, Ambassador Le Luong Minh, Vietnam’s representative to the UN Security Council, pointed out that this activity needs to be undertaken in conformity with the fundamental principles of objectivity, fairness, respect for national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity and equality in international relations.

He commended the UN Secretary-General’s report on mediation and described the publication of the report as a major step forwards promoting mediation as an effective tool for resolving disputes and conflicts.

However, the Vietnamese representative urged the UN to work closely with regional and sub-regional organisations to enhance the effectiveness of mediation activities and avoid unnecessary duplication, waste of resources or unhealthy competition or rivalry in the area.

The diplomat highlighted the UN Security Council’s vital role in promoting the peaceful settlement of disputes and conflicts by means of mediation.

He voiced Vietnam’s strong support for the council’s efforts to cooperate and coordinate with other UN agencies in carrying out mediation activities to peacefully resolve disputes and conflicts.