Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Dang Hoang Giang (Photo: VNA)Vietnam is well aware of losses and sufferings inwars, especially when it comes to children, he said, adding that protectingchildren in armed conflicts is always a priority of Vietnam since its firsttenure serving as a non-permanent member of the UNSC (2008-2009).
Giang urged concerned parties to immediately implementthe UN Secretary-General's call for a global ceasefire, and to respect andcomply with international law, especially the humanitarian law, to ensure thatchildren get full access to humanitarian aid and COVID-19 vaccines.
The Deputy Minister stressed the significance ofprotecting essential civilian infrastructure in conflicts, notably schools andhospitals, calling on countries to further implement relevant resolutions ofthe UNSC and join the Safe Schools Declaration.
Child protection should be at the core ofpeacekeeping, he said, adding that it should be integrated in the mandates ofall relevant peacekeeping operations and political missions.
At the Open Debate on Children and Armed Conflict (Photo: VNA)The COVID-19 pandemic has added new dimensions tothis vital work – and new stresses, he said, appealing to the internationalcommunity to coordinate to end violations against children.
Many countries also suggested further integratingthe agenda on children and armed conflicts into activities of the UNSC andrelevant mechanisms./.
VNA
