New York (VNA) – Ambassador Nguyen Phuong Nga, Head of Vietnam’sPermanent Mission to the United Nations, stressed the obligation of each andevery State to solve disputes by peaceful means in accordance withinternational law while attending a UN Security Council debate on May 17.

This main principle of international law is clearly setforth in Chapter VI of the Charter of the United Nations, which provides for diplomaticand legal measures and processes with a view to a pacific settlement of thedispute, Nga stated.

The Vietnamese representative also highlighted the role andcontributions of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) tostrengthening dialogue, friendly and cooperative environment, promotingpeaceful solutions to the disputes in the East Sea in accordance withinternational law, the UN Charter and the UN Convention on the Law of the Seaand, at the same time, ensuring the implementation of the Declaration on theConduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) in its entirety and the earlyconclusion of an effective and legally binding Code of Conduct (COC).

“As a candidate for a non-permanent seat at the UnitedNations Security Council for the term 2020-2021, Vietnam will spare no effortsto uphold international law and make contribution to the Council’s nobleendeavors to maintain international peace and security,” Nga told participants.

Themed “Upholding International Law within the Context ofthe Maintenance of International Peace and Security”, the UNSC open debateattracted delegates of over 70 member states.

Delegates agreed that international law plays an indispensablerole in preserving the rule-based international order, and serves as afoundation for international peace and security.

However, the respect for international law is facingnumerous challenges. Flagrant violations of international law have been seen inmany parts of the world, including power politics, unilateral measures, imposition,violation of sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of states,interference into countries’ internal affairs, threat to use or use of force.

In this context, the international community, especially theUN Security Council, must continue to uphold and promote the compliance withthe international law, and the implementation of Security Council resolutions.

Many countries emphasised the role of the InternationalCourt of Justice and other international legal mechanisms as well as theimportance of following the court’s rulings in addressing disputes, preventingconflicts and protecting peace.

They also said that the UN Security Council needs tointensify cooperation and promote the important role of regional organisationsin building trust, preventing conflicts and solving disputes peacefully.-VNA