Vietnam is running as ASEAN’s candidate for the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the 2023-2025 term, according to reports.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh made the announcement at the UNHRC’s 46th regular session on Monday through video conference. He said the candidature for membership came from a desire to further contribute effectively to joined efforts in protecting and promoting human rights.
Minh’s speech at the event also addressed the struggles that the ongoing pandemic has brought to all parts of the world, notably in terms of healthcare, social welfare and ensuring human rights are met. Nonetheless, he said he was hopeful that Covid-19 had offered a pathway for nations to unite and cooperate in order to get by and achieve a budding state of “new normal.”
“Vietnam is grateful for the valuable support from our partner countries, international organizations, non-governmental organizations and people around the world,” Minh said. “On its part, Vietnam has provided medical masks and supplies to support more than 50 countries and international partners in their response to the pandemic.”
“We are confident that together we can overcome the challenges and build a better future for all,” he concluded.
The UNHRC was founded in March 2006 and currently has 47 members including, The United States, Cuba, Russia, China and Senegal. Its 46th regular session opened on Feb. 22 and will close on March 23.
