UN archives reveal Vietnam's engagement with global organisation

A delegation from Vietnam’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations (UN), led by Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, has visited the UN Archives and Records Management Section to explore valuable documents related to the UN’s history and Vietnam’s journey to joining the organisation.
Vietnam-relating documents at the UN Archives and Records Management Section are showed to the Vietnamese delegation. (Photo: VNA)
Vietnam-relating documents at the UN Archives and Records Management Section are showed to the Vietnamese delegation. (Photo: VNA)

The visit was part of a series of activities marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day, and 48 years of Vietnam–UN relations.

During the tour, UN experts provided an overview of the UN’s formation and development, as well as key milestones in Vietnam–UN relations, including events that took place before Vietnam’s official admission to the organisation in 1977.

A highlight of the exhibition was a collection of original documents, including official letters and diplomatic notes from the Government of Vietnam in different periods, alongside UN reports and resolutions related to Vietnam’s struggle for national liberation, and documents reflecting the broad international support Vietnam received during its resistance wars. Notable agreements featured in the exhibit included the 1954 Geneva Accords, the 1973 Paris Peace Accords, and documents on Vietnam’s path to UN membership.

Among the standout items were records of exchanges between President Ho Chi Minh and UN representatives in 1945, marking the early days of both the newly founded Democratic Republic of Vietnam and the UN itself. Also on display was the official letter of application for UN membership, signed by Prime Minister Pham Van Dong on August 10, 1976, affirming the country’s commitment to fully complying with the UN Charter.

Beyond these historic milestones, the archives also showcased Vietnam’s efforts to overcome sanctions and blockade, and its pursuit of international integration with the UN playing a crucial role in fostering dialogue and reconciliation.

Speaking during the visit, Ambassador Giang highlighted the historical significance of the newly unveiled materials, noting that they vividly reflect Vietnam’s determination to overcome challenges and become a responsible and equal member of the global community.

Over the past 48 years, cooperation with the UN has helped protect and promote Vietnam’s national interests, particularly by maintaining a peaceful, secure environment for development, deepening international integration, and enhancing the country’s international stature, he added.

Giang also reaffirmed Vietnam’s strong commitment to multilateralism, the rule of law, international law and the UN Charter, and the country's ongoing, substantive contributions to the organisation’s work. He emphasised Vietnam’s continued support for the UN’s role in strengthening global governance and addressing shared challenges facing humanity.

VNA