A Vietnamese diplomat has applauded the remarkable progress in Burundi’s peace process, especially the rebel group FNL’s disarmament and the establishment of a roadmap for the peace process in Burundi.

Representative of Vietnam to the UN Security Council, Ambassador Le Luong Minh, made the remark while attending the council’s session on June 9 to discuss the situation in Burundi as well as operations of the UN Integrated Office in Burundi (BINUB).

The ambassador called upon all parties concerned in Burundi to firmly adhere to the peace and political process and promote cooperation to resolve the outstanding issues.

He highly appreciated the Burundian Government’s efforts in preparing for the 2010 elections and urged the UN and international community to continue supporting Burundi in addressing the current challenges to its political process, socio-economic recovery and development.

Minh also praised the contributions made by the African Union, regional countries and the Peace-building Commission (PBC) to the consolidation of Burundi ’s peace process, saying that by continued engagement and enhanced coordination, regional and international partners will facilitate the stabilization process in the country.

The Vietnamese representative suggested that the BINUB focus on peace-building activities and facilitating long-term development in Burundi./.