"Vietnam has always been a leading nation in promoting global peace and security"

Reporter: Minister Kubrakov Ivan Vladimirovich, what impact do you think the Hanoi Convention will have on the region and the world in enhancing cooperation in preventing and combating cybercrime?

Minister Kubrakov Ivan Vladimirovich: We all recognize that cybercrime knows no borders. Today, as nations develop rapidly and every sector increasingly moves into the digital space, combating this form of crime requires joint efforts from all of us. No single country can cope with cybercrime on its own.

I believe that this cooperation will help further strengthen international relations, enhancing not only security but also the economic potential of many countries. Cybercrime today directly affects the lives of citizens and has far-reaching consequences for economic growth and all aspects of society. Therefore, the signing of the Hanoi Convention today marks a major step forward and an important milestone in our common efforts to reinforce security for all nations.

We view the Hanoi Convention as a powerful legal instrument in the fight against a global challenge that no country can tackle alone. Only through collective efforts can we combat cybercrime effectively and sustainably — a threat that affects the economies of all nations. This issue can only be substantively addressed if we all join hands. I am confident that more and more countries will participate in and utilize the Hanoi Convention as a global framework for cooperation to confront the common challenges of the digital era.

Reporter: Vietnam was chosen as the host country for the signing ceremony of the Hanoi Convention. In your view, what does this reflect about Vietnam’s reputation and role in global affairs?

Minister Kubrakov Ivan Vladimirovich: The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Belarus has had long-term and effective cooperation with the Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam in strengthening security for both countries. In my view, signing the convention in Vietnam today carries special significance, as Vietnam has always been a pioneer in promoting global peace and security. I highly appreciate that the Government of Vietnam understands clearly that without security, there can be no development — whether in the economy or any other field.

Holding the signing ceremony in a dynamic and rapidly developing country like Vietnam opens up many new opportunities — for cooperation, exchange, economic promotion, and sustainable development. I believe that the decision made today in Hanoi — the heart of Vietnam — represents not only the signing of a convention but also the creation of a concrete and effective mechanism for global cooperation in combating cybercrime.

Reporter: What are your expectations for the outcomes of the Hanoi Convention in building trust, enhancing cooperation among nations, and expanding opportunities for deeper collaboration between Belarus and Vietnam in cybersecurity and digital transformation?

Minister Kubrakov Ivan Vladimirovich: Any issue identified by us or our colleagues at the Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam is swiftly addressed in close coordination — not only in the field of cybercrime but also regarding other types of crime. As Minister of Internal Affairs, I have visited and worked in Vietnam many times because we share a common aspiration for progress and development. Whenever even a minor issue arises, we make every effort to safeguard our societies and national security.

In the digital era, every segment of society — individuals, institutions, and organizations — becomes a potential target of cybercrime. Therefore, protecting information, data, and national economies must be a top priority. Particularly, vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and children, need to be supported and equipped with knowledge to avoid becoming victims of cybercrime.

Vietnam and Belarus have already established and implemented bilateral cooperation mechanisms to strengthen cybersecurity and protect citizens. I believe that the experience of cooperation between Vietnam and Belarus can serve as a model for other nations to learn from and apply. We will continue working in this direction, striving to protect our countries from cyber threats. It should be reaffirmed that this cooperation not only consolidates our bilateral relationship but also contributes to enhancing security and stability across all spheres of life.

Reporter: Thank you very much!