Vietnam attends 16th session of UN Human Rights Council

(VOV) - The UN Human Rights Council opened its 16th session in Geneva with the participation of more than 70 world leaders.

The top of the agenda are issues related to human rights over the world, especially in Libya, and the Human Rights Council’s plan of operation.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of the Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh, who is head of the Vietnamese delegation at the session, said the current situation in Northern Africa and the Middle East indicates that peace and stability are closely associated with ensuring basic human rights. He emphasized that protecting human rights is the responsibility of all countries.

He called on all stakeholders in Libya to work closely together for a peaceful solution to the situation without intervention from the outside to maintain peace and order and ensure the safety of foreigners in the country.

Regarding the Human Right Council’s operation, Minh said all countries should abide by general principles to make the council become a forum for cooperation between countries to resolve human rights-related issues.

He also presented Vietnam’s policies, laws and achievements on human rights, especially its efforts to reduce poverty, maintain economic growth, and ensure people’s basic rights.

Under its socio-economic development plan with a focus on economic growth, social equality, and building of a law-governed state, Vietnam has been promoting the implementation of human rights, he said.

The Deputy FM said Vietnam always attaches great importance to strengthening international cooperation in ensuring human rights.

Minh announced that Vietnam has decided to apply for the council’s membership in the 2013-2016 period to share its experience with other countries for the sake of peace, prosperity, and equality.

The 16th council meeting will last until March 25.


(2011-3-1/VOVNews)