Vietnam, on behalf of the 12 founding members the UNCLOS Group of Friends, pledged their active implementation and respect to the Convention.

Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the UN, highlighted the importance of the UNCLOS as a comprehensive regime of law and order in the world's oceans and seas, establishing rules governing all uses of the oceans and their resources. This was repeatedly confirmed in various UN resolutions, he said.

Ambassador Giang said that more than ever, the world community should lay down its firm stance in maintaining legal framework in oceans, stipulated in the Convention. Whatever size it is, each member country is bound by its legal obligations. Their actions, including maritime claims, maritime activities, and international and regional cooperation, must be consistent with the UNCLOS. Countries must also ensure freedom of navigation, safety, and security for lawful maritime activities while conserving and using the oceans and marine resources sustainably, he added.