Ambassador David Fernández Puyana, a scholar of law and representative of the United Nations University for Peace (UPEACE) in Geneva, has spoken highly of Vietnam's efforts towards peacebuilding and socio-economic development.
Ambassador Spotlights Viet Nam's Peace-building Endeavors at UN University for Peace
In an interview with our news agency's correspondents in Geneva, on the 50th anniversary of Vietnam's liberation and national reunification, Puyana recognized the historical significance of the victory on April 30, 1975. He expressed that this victory was a crucial turning point for Vietnam, as well as the world during that period, symbolizing the reunification of the Vietnamese people and the importance of the efforts made by President Ho Chi Minh and other Vietnamese leaders.
He emphasized the importance of Vietnam joining the United Nations just two years after reunification, indicating Vietnam's peaceful nature – one of the fundamental conditions for joining the UN system.
"Time and time again, we look for role models, and we follow Vietnam's example, particularly its reconciliation process, as a model for building and fostering peace, as well as for building trust in the world," said the ambassador.
During his recent visit to Hanoi, Puyana signed a Memorandum of Understanding between UPEACE and the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, committing to enhancing cooperation on peace education and conflict resolution. He lauded Vietnam and Hanoi as symbols of peace, serving as a typical and ideal center for promoting and developing peaceful solutions for both the region and the world.
Puyana expressed admiration for Vietnam's resilience and the vitality of its dynamic society. Today, Vietnam stands as one of the most important countries in Southeast Asia, with remarkable economic growth, reflecting the increasing role of innovation and technology in everyday life for Vietnamese people. He acknowledged the critical role higher education institutions and universities play in Vietnam.
He also mentioned "bamboo diplomacy," describing it as an effective strategy in a world still grappling with uncertainties and potential risks. He asserted that this is one of the most beautiful and meaningful metaphors for flexibility, a key aspect in diplomacy.
In recent years, Vietnam has shown the world its flexibility and its commitment to dialogue in addressing challenges. Throughout its history, Vietnam has endured wars, yet maintains strong relations with many countries. This underscores the importance of dialogue, he added. - VNA/VNS
[Enrichment Data]Puyana serves as the Permanent Observer of the Permanent Delegation of the University for Peace to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva[1]. His role involves advancing peacebuilding initiatives through international cooperation. In April 2025, Puyana visited Hanoi to sign a Memorandum of Understanding between UPEACE and Vietnamese partners, reinforcing collaboration on peace education and conflict resolution[2]. He emphasized Vietnam’s historical significance in global peace efforts, particularly the April 30, 1975 victory, which he described as a pivotal milestone in the struggle against imperialism and a testament to revolutionary heroism under the Communist Party of Vietnam’s leadership[3]. His work underscores Vietnam’s post-war transformation into a trusted international partner, as acknowledged by global experts[3]. Puyana’s activities align with UPEACE’s mission to promote peace education and sustainable development, reflecting Vietnam’s ongoing contributions to global solidarity and conflict resolution[2][3].
Ambassador David Fernández Puyana (centre) Permanent Observer of the Permanent Delegation of the University for Peace to the United Nations Office and other international organisations in Geneva. - VNA/VNS Photo
- Ambassador David Fernández Puyana, a scholar of law, commends Vietnam's dedication to peacebuilding and socio-economic development, while emphasizing its historical significance, particularly the 1975 victory on April 30.
- During a recent visit to Hanoi, Puyana signed a Memorandum of Understanding between UPEACE and the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, aiming to strengthen cooperation on peace education and conflict resolution.
- Acknowledging Vietnam's resilience and vibrant society, Puyana highlights the significant role of higher education institutions and universities in the country.
- In the realm of technology, Puyana admires Vietnam's remarkable economic growth, reflecting the increasing role of innovation in everyday life.
- The ambassador mentions the concept of "bamboo diplomacy," describing it as an effective strategy in a world that still grapples with uncertainties and potential risks.
- Puyana underscores Vietnam's flexibility and commitment to dialogue in addressing challenges, especially throughout its history of wars and maintaining strong relationships with numerous countries.
- In the general news sector, discussions often revolve around Vietnam's contribution to global peace efforts, including the pivotal role it played during the April 30, 1975 victory against imperialism.
- Learning from Vietnam's examples in reconciliation and peacebuilding, Puyana sees it as a model for fostering peace and building trust in the world.
