To Lam Urges Trust Reconstruction at UN General Assembly

General Secretary and President To Lam addressed the high-level general debate of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 22, 2026, calling for the rebuilding of trust amid profound transformations of the international order and increasing fragmentation of the global economy due to rising trade, investment, and technology barriers. To Lam emphasized that all countries must respect one another's independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and right to choose their own path of development; refrain from interference in internal affairs, threat or use of force contrary to the United Nations Charter. He stressed that the restoration of trust requires countries to work together to manage differences in a responsible manner, emphasizing the need to prevent crises, control competition, maintain dialogue, and respect and fully implement commitments. Furthermore, he stated that major powers must take the lead in respecting international law, exercising self-restraint, and responsibly addressing common issues where the United Nations plays a central role. The General Secretary and President underscored that in all conflicts, civilians must be protected, international humanitarian law must be respected, and humanitarian relief must have access. He reaffirmed that Viet Nam supports the right to self-determination of Palestinians and the two-state solution based on the coexistence of Palestine and Israel, living side by side in peace, in accordance with international law and United Nations resolutions. Additionally, To Lam reiterated Viet Nam's consistent solidarity with the State and People of Cuba, calling on the U.S. to end the unilateral embargo, sanctions, and energy blockade against Cuba.