Mr. Chair,

The Lao PDR takes note of the report by the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).

The Lao PDR views that human rights issues should be approached equally, while respecting national sovereignty and the authoritative information provided by states, and fostering cooperation among countries. We believe that international efforts to promote and protect human rights can only progress through universality in a fair, objectivity, and non-selectivity, as well as by eliminating double standards and politicization. In this context, we view the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) as the most effective mechanism for addressing human rights issues across all nations in a fair and constructive way.

In this connection, my delegation calls on the international community, the concerned parties, and the DPRK to establish an appropriate channel for constructive and genuine dialogue, and cooperation to addressing the matter in a peaceful and mutually respectful way.

I thank you.