ASEAN and Vietnam emphasize social development at UNGA 81

At the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Ambassador Do Hung Viet, Head of the Permanent Mission of Vietnam to the United Nations, spoke on behalf of ASEAN regarding social development priorities.

Representing ASEAN, Ambassador Viet highlighted the implementation of the ASEAN Vision 2045, which focuses on a cohesive approach to social welfare, bridging the digital divide, addressing aging populations, empowering youth, and supporting persons with disabilities. The Ambassador noted that ASEAN intends to collaborate with the United Nations through the ASEAN-UN Action Plan for 2026-2030 to achieve sustainable results for vulnerable groups.

In a national capacity, Ambassador Viet also outlined Vietnam’s development policies, which prioritize linking economic growth with social welfare. Key achievements mentioned include a projected reduction of the multidimensional poverty rate to approximately 1.3% by 2025, health insurance coverage exceeding 95%, and the provision of free public education from preschool through high school. Additionally, Vietnam is utilizing digital transformation to improve access to social services and reduce regional disparities.