The National Assembly voted on the adoption of the Law on Preventing and Combating the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction on August 23 in Hà Nội. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — The National Assembly on Sunday passed the Law on Preventing and Combating the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs), with 473 of the 474 deputies voting in favour, equivalent to 94.60 per cent.

The law was adopted during the first extraordinary session of the 16th National Assembly.

Prior to the vote, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence General Phan Văn Giang presented the Government's report on the explanations, incorporation of deputies' feedback and revisions to the draft law.

He said the draft had been reviewed and revised to clarify its scope, regulated entities, terminology and principles of application, ensuring constitutional compliance, consistency with the legal system, compatibility with international treaties, and suitability to practical requirements.

The law establishes a framework for managing and controlling the proliferation of WMDs and its financing based on a risk-based approach. The revised provisions clarify the grounds, authority and responsibilities of relevant entities while avoiding overlap with sector-specific legislation and safeguarding the lawful rights and interests of organisations and individuals.

The legislation also provides for implementation arrangements, inter-agency coordination, data sharing, personnel and resources, with responsibilities clearly assigned without creating additional organisational or staffing requirements.

Provisions on transitional arrangements, enforcement, language and legislative drafting techniques have also been reviewed and revised to ensure clarity and consistency.

General Phan Văn Giang stressed that preventing and combating the proliferation of WMDs is an urgent task involving multiple sectors and fields and requiring extensive international cooperation.

The new law is expected to provide a stronger legal foundation for Việt Nam to proactively prevent and detect risks at an early stage and respond to them in a timely manner, helping protect national independence and sovereignty, national security, and the lives and health of the people.

It is also intended to help maintain a peaceful and stable environment for rapid and sustainable national development, while reaffirming Việt Nam's consistent responsibility and commitment to implementing relevant international treaties and United Nations Security Council resolutions.

According to the Government, the legislation will contribute to creating a safe and transparent environment for investment and trade, as well as scientific and technological cooperation, while enhancing Việt Nam's position and reputation internationally.

The Law on Preventing and Combating the Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction comprises four chapters and 36 articles. Its provisions are structured from general rules to management and control measures, implementation mechanisms and enforcement provisions.

The law will take effect on July 1, 2027. — VNS