Hanoi (VNA) – The signing ceremony of the United Nations Convention against Cybercrime (also known as the Hanoi Convention) will mark a new chapter in global cyber cooperation and governance, making cyberspace a domain of law, collaboration, and development, Party General Secretary To Lam affirmed on October 25.
Hosting a meeting with heads of the delegations attending the Hanoi Convention signing ceremony and high-level conference, General Secretary Lam emphasised that the participation of representatives from various countries and international organisations in this global event is a vivid testament to the spirit of international solidarity in addressing a common challenge of humanity. It also reaffirms the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and nations around the world.
The General Secretary expressed his pride that Hanoi was unanimously chosen by UN member states for the convention’s signing, recognising Vietnam’s contributions to combating cybercrime. He noted this also reflects the international community’s appreciation of the country’s efforts to promote peace and security, and its rising global standing.
The Vietnamese Party chief assessed that the world is undergoing profound and rapid changes, with strategic competition among major powers, arms and nuclear races, regional conflicts, and ethnic and religious tensions remaining complex. Non-traditional security challenges and the downsides of the technology revolution have further heightened global uncertainty and risk.
In this context, he stressed a deeper appreciation for the value of peace, stability, and the defence of national independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity based on the principles of international law and the UN Charter.
General Secretary Lam affirmed that, as an integral part of the international community, Vietnam is proactively harnessing the potential of cyberspace and cyber-related technologies for development.
In the time ahead, Vietnam will stay steadfast on its socialist path, promoting self-reliance, confidence, and national pride while expanding partnerships worldwide for shared global goals, he stated, adding that it looks forward to continued support and cooperation from political parties, friends, and peace-loving peoples to strengthen international solidarity and contribute to global peace, development, and human progress.
Calling on all countries to ratify the convention soon so it can take effect promptly, the top leader affirmed that Vietnam reaffirms its commitment to working with other nations and international organisations to promote cooperation in harnessing the potential of cyberspace and combating cybercrime, for peace, stability, and sustainable development of all nations, and for a safe, happy life for people around the world.
Ghada Waly, Executive Director of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), commended Vietnam’s pioneering role and active contributions throughout the negotiation process and in hosting the convention’s signing ceremony in Hanoi.
She emphasised that the convention marks a major step toward establishing the first global legal framework to enhance international cooperation in combating cybercrime. UNODC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Vietnam through technical assistance, capacity-building, and exploring the possibility of establishing a Regional Cybercrime Training Centre in Hanoi.
Speaking on behalf of the heads of delegations, Maria Jose Pinto Gonzalez Artigas, Vice President of Ecuador, noted that the convention is built on cooperation and understanding. By signing it, countries commit to sharing expertise and working together to address cyber threats.
She stressed that today’s signatures mark not the end, but the beginning of a long journey - one that requires capacity-building, stronger institutions, youth education, and the engagement of the private sector and civil society.
Cybersecurity, she affirmed, is not solely the responsibility of governments but of everyone, and unity is the strongest shield./.
