The Party Central Committee's Commission for Communication and Education in coordination with the General Department of Politics of the Vietnam People's Army held a national videoconference in Hanoi on June 28 in response to World Oceans Day (June 8) and Vietnam Sea and Island Week.
Delegates at the ceremony
Speaking at the ceremony, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh stressed the importance of sustainable exploitation of marine resources in a substantive and effective manner, coupled with the preservation and restoration of marine and coastal ecosystems.
The Government leader also underlined the urgent need to establish and implement a regional and global cooperation mechanism, increase data sharing, and perfect policies for the conservation of ecosystems and environmental protection.
He highlighted the significance of ensuring a peaceful and stable environment and security at sea on the foundation of international law, especially the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), along with respect for the sovereignty, interest and legal economic activities of states.
At the same time, it is necessary to settle disputes through peaceful measures in line with international law with respect for diplomatic and legal processes, ensuring maritime and aviation freedom, safety and security, and implementing regulations on fisherycooperation mechanisms in the world with the participation of coastal countries, as well as the principles of the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries.
The PM emphasised that as a coastal country seriously suffering impacts from climate change and sea level rise, Vietnam has shown strong determination to join hands with the international community towards the blue sea and green Earth, as well as peace, stability, cooperation and prosperous development, while working hard with respect for international laws and conventions, and actively engaging in bilateral and multilateral and bilateral mechanisms, and promoting regional and international cooperation related to seas and oceans.
An arts performance at the programme
Vietnam commits to strictly implementing international obligations, reducing emissions, responding to climate changes, ensuring maritime security and safety, and settling sea and ocean disputes through peaceful measures in accordance with international law. The country resolutely and persistently protects its legitimate rights and interests, independence, sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and respects the legitimate rights and interests of other countries, he stressed.
Vietnam will devise measures to preserve biodiversity,restore marine ecosystems, and deal with sources of pollution, including plastic waste, along with implementing Party resolutions and laws as well as directing the development of sea-based economy in line with protecting national defence and security, PM Chinh added.
The Government leader thanked international organisations and development partners around the world and said he hopes to continue receiving their cooperation and support on sea and ocean-related issues.
