Illustration: tuyengiao.vn
In response to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, the spokesperson for the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued two statements on February 28 and March 3, highlighting several points: Vietnam is deeply concerned about the complex and escalating conflict in the Middle East, which poses a serious threat to the lives and security of its people, as well as the peace and stability of the region and the world. Vietnam opposes the use of force against sovereign states, especially against civilian infrastructure, which results in numerous casualties. Vietnam also calls on all parties involved to exercise the utmost restraint, immediately cease any actions that may inflame tensions, protect civilians and essential infrastructure, resolve disputes through peaceful means, strictly adhere to international law, the United Nations Charter, and relevant resolutions, respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations, and create conducive conditions for peace negotiations for security, safety, peace, and stability in the region and the world.
However, on social media, reactionary and disgruntled forces are exploiting this incident to attack Vietnamese diplomacy, describing it as mechanical, rigid, only expressing a “deep concern,” or even as having a vague, lacking firmness, or “hesitant” position. This subjective and speculative tone did not emerge with the start of the conflict in the Middle East; it has actually become a frequently employed tactic following every statement by the spokesperson for the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs on international issues.
Firstly, the expression “deep concern” is commonly used in the diplomatic statements or messages of nations to express their worry, fear, or warning about the development and consequences of serious international events and issues. [Context: Discussion of Vietnam’s response to the conflict in the Middle East] [Fact Check: Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued statements regarding the conflict].
It is clear that Vietnam is not directly involved in or participating in the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Therefore, expressing its concern about the use of force, calling on countries to respect international law, de-escalate tensions, resume negotiations, and promote dialogue is a cautious step, grounded in international law, and demonstrates its responsibility to the international community by taking a stand for peace. This approach is in line with the role of a country external to the conflict and committed to peace. Since the beginning of hostilities in the Middle East, many countries in Europe and Asia have sent similar messages to Vietnam.
It should also be emphasized that the recent statement, as well as the previous statements by the spokesperson for the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, are carefully considered messages based on a consistent foreign policy position and an assessment of the multifaceted impacts, and not mere lip service. [Fact Check: Vietnam maintains a neutral position in the conflict in the Middle East] [Context: Analysis of Vietnam’s diplomatic stance].
These above messages are based on adherence to an independent, autonomous, peaceful, friendly, cooperative foreign policy focused on development; on multilateralism and diversification of international relations; and on the role of a friend, a reliable partner, and a responsible member of the international community. [Fact Check: Analysis of Vietnam’s foreign policy principles].
Expressing concern by Vietnam about serious international issues is not about avoidance but rather demonstrates the finesse and wisdom of its diplomacy in the matter. Speculations and attacks targeting Vietnamese diplomatic statements do not analyze Vietnam’s position on international issues but mainly aim to manipulate public opinion, leading to the conclusion that Vietnam pursues a vague and passive diplomatic approach, undermining public confidence. [Fact Check: Discussion on Vietnam’s diplomatic approach].
Thwarting these subversive tactics and remaining vigilant against them is how every citizen and internet user can effectively contribute to protecting the country’s foreign policy and the peaceful and stable environment it currently enjoys. [Context: Call for public vigilance against manipulative tactics].
According to the People’s Army newspaper. [Fact Check: Referencing the source of the article].
Source: https://baoninhbinh.org.vn/nhin-thau-am-muu-chong-pha-duong-loi-doi-ngoai-cua-viet-nam-260316101018137.html
