Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has sent a message calling on the Western Pacific Region to "Stand in Solidarity" to combat COVID-19 to the Virtual Conference of the regional Health Ministers. 

Ladies and Gentlemen, 

The Covid-19 pandemic, the worst global crisis since WWII, is spreading swiftly with heavy tolls on humankind. The WHO should be commended for its role and responsibility in this global endeavor, and I wish to endorse this meaningful virtual conference under the theme “Stand in Solidarity to Combat Covid-19”.

1. Viet Nam realized in no time the danger posed by Covid-19 when it first hit international media headlines. With strong political leadership, we undertook an array of preemptive measures to “fight epidemics as if fighting the enemy”. The Government’s actions have been rolled out in a resolute and coordinated manner, with prompt adjustments if required. Returning Vietnamese, foreign visitors and those who came to close contact with positive cases are all subject to mandatory quarantine at designated facilities. A heavy focus was placed on isolating and wiping out the virus hotspots.

Viet Nam adopted a dual approach of containing and controlling the outbreak while sustaining socio-economic stability, fending off disruption. We have been resolute in safeguarding the lives and well-being of our people, even at the expense of the economy. Immediate actions have been taken to help people facing hardship, particularly the vulnerable, poor and workers, making sure that no one is left behind. All instructions of the Party, Government and authorities have well resonated among our people. To date, Viet Nam has managed to keep the situation under good control. Almost 50% of the cases have recovered with zero fatality. 

2. However, as the Covid-19 pandemic knows no borders, this fight requires cooperation from and among all countries. A global pandemic requires global solidarity and an all-out global response. As the UN’s specialized health agency, the WHO should continue taking the lead in mobilizing and coordinating efforts, particularly in developing vaccine and treatment drugs, and providing medical supplies and equipment. Viet Nam in its capacity as the ASEAN Chair 2020 has issued the ASEAN Chair’s Statement on concerted actions against COVID-19, and is working closely with fellow member states to step up joint responses.

As called for in UNGA Resolution 74/270 dated 2 April on COVID-19, Viet Nam has, within our capacity, shared information and experience, and provided medical supplies and equipment to other countries despite our own constraints. I take this opportunity to thank the international community and the people around the world for the support and assistance to Viet Nam and for joining this fight against the pandemic.

I have all confidence that our concerted efforts will lead us to triumph. We will be able to ensure the health and safety of our peoples, and together forge ahead toward prosperity and realizing the 2030 UN Sustainable Development Agenda.

Thank you for your kind attention./.