Chinese President Xi Jinping marked the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence with a powerful speech that emphasized the principles' enduring relevance and their role in shaping a harmonious global community.
Speaking on behalf of the Chinese government and people, Xi welcomed distinguished guests and friends, reiterating the significance of these principles in the modern history of international relations.
President Xi reflected on the historic context that led to the initiation of the Five Principles. In the aftermath of World War II, national independence and liberation movements surged worldwide, leading to the collapse of colonial systems. Amidst the Cold War's tensions, newly independent countries sought to safeguard their sovereignty and economic growth.
China, adhering to the principle of independence, pursued peaceful coexistence with all nations.
The Five Principles—mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, mutual non-aggression, mutual non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence—were first specified in the China-India and China-Myanmar joint statements.
These principles quickly gained global recognition, particularly at the 1955 Bandung Conference, where over 20 Asian and African countries endorsed them. The Non-Aligned Movement of the 1960s also adopted the Five Principles as guiding tenets.
The United Nations General Assembly further cemented their significance with the 1970 Declaration on Principles of International Law and the 1974 Declaration on the Establishment of the New International Economic Order.
Over seven decades, the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence have transcended time and space, evolving into universally applicable norms for international relations and fundamental principles of international law.
They have made significant contributions to human progress, setting benchmarks for international relations and rule of law. Xi highlighted how these principles align with the UN Charter's purposes and principles, stressing mutuality and equality in state-to-state relations.
Xi Jinping emphasized the Five Principles' role in fostering mutual trust, friendship, and cooperation between countries with diverse social systems. He noted their impact on developing countries, which have used these principles to pursue cooperation, unity, and self-strength. The Five Principles have also inspired South-South cooperation and improved North-South relations.
The Five Principles have contributed to reforming the international order by opposing power politics, imperialism, colonialism, and hegemonism. They have laid a foundation for a more just and equitable global order, protecting the interests of smaller and weaker nations.
President Xi reiterated China's commitment to building a community with a shared future for mankind, rooted in traditional Chinese values and the Five Principles. This vision promotes equality, mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence. Xi called for upholding sovereign equality, mutual respect, and fairness and justice in international relations.
Xi assured that China would remain committed to peaceful development, rejecting colonialism and hegemony. He highlighted China's constructive role in international conflicts and its efforts to promote global peace and security. China will continue to expand global partnerships, promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, and advocate for true multilateralism and global governance reform.
To enhance Global South cooperation, China will establish a Global South research center, provide scholarships, and launch a youth leaders program. Xi announced additional support for South-South cooperation and emphasized China's openness to free trade arrangements with Global South countries.
President Xi's speech reaffirmed the enduring relevance of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and China's commitment to building a harmonious global community. He called for unity, cooperation, and mutual understanding to address global challenges and create a better future for humanity. The 70th anniversary of the Five Principles serves as a starting point for continued efforts to promote peace, development, and a shared future for all nations.
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