Beijing: At the 10th Beijing Xiangshan Forum’s first plenary session held on October 30, Gen. Phan Van Giang, Vice Secretary of the Central Military Commission and Minister of National Defence, accentuated the importance of cooperation and adherence to international norms to ensure global peace and prosperity. The session’s focal theme was “Major Countries’ Responsibility and Global Security Cooperation”.
According to Vietnam News Agency, Giang articulated that every nation, regardless of its size or development status, yearns for a secure environment characterized by comprehensive, interconnected, integrated, and harmonious security. For sustainable peace and growth, the interests and security of all nations must be recognized and respected.
Giang emphasized Vietnam’s steadfast foreign policy, which is rooted in independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation, and development. Vietnam champions the ideals of multilateralism, diversification of relations, and being an amicable, trustworthy partner to all nations. Vietnam’s defence strategy is centered around peace and self-defence, adhering to principles like not joining military alliances, prohibiting the establishment of foreign military bases on its soil, and avoiding force or threats in international relations.
Gen. Giang cited the Beijing Xiangshan Forum, other multilateral defence and security forums, and Vietnam’s involvement in United Nations peacekeeping missions as affirmations of Vietnam’s active and responsible stance on global and regional issues. Vietnam’s bilateral defence ties with other countries are conducted openly and transparently, ensuring that they do not infringe on the interests of other nations.
Emphasizing the collective ambition of establishing a peaceful, cooperative, and prosperous world, Giang urged all countries to comply with international law and respect each other’s independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national interests. He highlighted the importance of “strategic autonomy” and advocated for respect towards the diversity and uniqueness of each nation. He underscored the importance of unity and consensus in addressing global security challenges and encouraged nations to fulfill their international commitments.
Giang also mentioned the ongoing discussions surrounding the Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC), which will not only address security concerns but also reinforce international laws, primarily the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, and the commitment of relevant parties.
During the forum, Minister Giang held bilateral discussions with defence ministers from Laos and Cambodia, as well as ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn. The meetings explored past collaborations and future cooperation prospects, with a focus on fostering bonds and ensuring the success of upcoming joint initiatives, such as the first Vietnam-Laos-Cambodia border defence friendship exchange slated for December.
The meetings reaffirmed the commitment of Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia to deepen their defence ties, with emphasis on the importance of these relations in upholding regional friendship and comprehensive cooperation.