Vietnam, as an active member of the Conference on Disarmament (CD) and one of its Presidents in 2009, always gives full support and makes contributions to the work of the Conference.

The statement was made by Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh at a CD meeting in Geneva , Switzerland , on February 26.

“Since its first participation in the Conference’s meetings in 1983 and its becoming a full member of the Conference in 1996, Vietnam has always attached great importance to the CD as the sole global forum responsible for the discussions and negotiations on international disarmament treaties,” he said.

Minh stated that Vietnam is aware of the challenges facing the CD in reaffirming its role and credibility and sharing the common concern and interest of other members.

He expressed his belief that with the CD’s adoption of its agenda for 2013, an early endorsement and implementation of a balanced and comprehensive programme of work is the only way to break the deadlock.

The minister reiterated the strong commitments of the Vietnamese Government to supporting all efforts for general and complete disarmament.

“ Vietnam stands ready to collaborate with all member states to work out a solution helping the CD produce positive results. We welcome and will actively engage in the deliberations for initiatives aimed at promote the CD’s work”, he affirmed.

On the sidelines of the CD February 26 session, Minister Minh had bilateral meetings with Monaco Foreign Minister Jose Badia, Croatian Deputy Foreign Minister Josko Klisovic and Justice Minister of Rwanda Tharcisse Karugarama.

The CD 2013 meetings are taking place in Geneva from February 25 to March 1 with the participation of delegations from many countries worldwide.

Established in 1979 as a result of the first special session of the UN General Assembly, the CD currently consists of 67 members representing almost all regions and groups of countries with diverse levels of development.-VNA