Undated BAE Systems' handout image of a mock up of what an SSN-AUKUS submarine will look like.

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam on Thursday urged for safety and peaceful use of nuclear energy in response to the newly unveiled deal from the AUKUS alliance that would see Australia armed with nuclear-powered military submarines.

"Peace, stability, cooperation and involvement in the region and the world are the common goals of all nations," Deputy spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Phạm Thu Hằng said during the regular press briefing in Hà Nội.

"And all countries have the responsibility to contribute to achieving these goals.

"Atomic and nuclear energy must be used and developed for peaceful purposes and for the socio-economic development of countries.

"The usage and governance of atomic power nuclear energy will put first the absolute safety of the people and environment."

Việt Nam also hopes that all countries will make active contributions to achieving such common goals of peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region and in the world, according to the diplomat.

Previously on March 13, US President Joe Biden, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, announced that the US is set to share military technology with Australia to help this country build a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines.

The deal has triggered concerns over a potential nuclear arms race in the region. — VNS