At the 4th Conference on Cooperation among East Asian Countries for Palestinian Development (CEAPAD IV) held on July 11 in Kuala Lumpur, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son reiterated Vietnam's unwavering stance: full support for a just, comprehensive, and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue, including the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state.

The conference was co-chaired by the foreign ministers of Malaysia and Japan, with the Palestinian Minister of Planning and International Cooperation attending as a guest of the co-chairs. The Prime Minister of Palestine also delivered a pre-recorded message.

Launched by Japan in 2013, CEAPAD is a cooperative mechanism involving East Asian nations such as ASEAN members, South Korea, and Japan, aimed at boosting development support for Palestine. Vietnam has been actively engaged through diplomatic backing, humanitarian aid, training programs, and specific development initiatives supporting the Palestinian Authority.

At the conference, delegates voiced serious concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. They called for an immediate ceasefire, an end to violence, civilian protection, and the facilitation of humanitarian efforts.

Participants emphasized the need for international collaboration and a stronger CEAPAD partnership to address urgent humanitarian needs and support Palestine’s recovery, reconstruction, and development. The conference adopted the Kuala Lumpur CEAPAD IV Action Program to streamline and coordinate aid efforts based on Palestine’s practical needs.

In his remarks, Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son reiterated Vietnam’s consistent support for the creation of a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, based on pre-1967 borders and aligned with relevant UN resolutions.

He also reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to close cooperation with East Asian partners to mobilize resources, share development experience, and help build Palestine’s institutional capacity.

On this occasion, Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son announced an additional USD 350,000 humanitarian aid package for the Palestinian people, delivered through relevant international organizations, as a gesture of solidarity and support for Palestine’s reconstruction efforts.

Nhan Dan