Statement by
H.E Mr. Saleumxay KOMMASITH,
Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Lao PDR,
At the High Level Commemorative Meeting to Mark 60th Anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement
11 - 12 October 2021
Belgrade, Serbia

Mr. Chairman, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates,

I would like to begin by expressing our heartfelt appreciation to the Government of Serbia and its people for hosting this meaningful event amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Mr. Chairman,

Today we are gathering to mark the 60th Anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement in this historic place of Belgrade, the birthplace of the Non-Aligned Movement. The international environment at that time was so divided and the political rivalry under the cold war was heightened, threatening international peace, stability and national sovereignty. Against such backdrop, the Non-Aligned Movement was founded with the objectives to preserve international peace and security under the Bandung Principles of peaceful co-existence as core principles of

the Movement such as the principles of sovereignty, sovereign equality of States, territorial integrity and non-intervention in the internal affairs of any State that are still shining and holding dear in many quarters today.

Mr. Chairman,

Irrespective of the world being ravaged by COVID-19 Pandemic, the international environment today is overwhelmed with threats and challenges, be it on international peace and security, cooperation for development, climate change and new emerging security threats. Therefore, our Movement’s spirit on strengthening multilateralism remains extremely relevant to the challenges that we face today. This commemorative meeting keeps reminding us vital role of the NAM to overcome the historical challenges and the legacy of our Movement, defend the founding principles, ideals and purposes of our Movement. My delegation, therefore, urges the upholding of our Movement’s fundamental principles that advocate peace, security and cooperation for development under the multilateralism of the United Nations auspices.

Mr. Chairman,

I would like to reiterate Lao PDR’s consistent support to the cause of the NAM and stands ready to work with our fellow members in enhancing solidarity and unity of the Movement for the world peace and prosperity.

Thank you