Beijing Declaration: 70th Anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence

July 2, Kathmandu: On June 28, 2024, Beijing celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence with a major conference.

Chinese President Xi Jinping gave a key speech, and Premier Li Qiang hosted the event. The conference brought together former leaders, diplomats, academics, business leaders, and representatives from over 100 countries. The gathering concluded with the Beijing Declaration.

The conference centred on the theme, “From the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence to Building a Community with a Shared Future for Mankind,” and included four sub-forums.

These forums discussed Asian wisdom, the role of the Global South, Chinese modernization, and global governance, aiming to build a consensus on a shared future for humanity.

Key points from the conference included:

• Established 70 years ago, the Five Principles promote mutual respect for sovereignty, non-aggression, non-interference, equality, and peaceful coexistence. They have become essential norms for international relations and law.
• These principles align with the UN Charter and provide a framework for peaceful coexistence among nations.
• They have facilitated cooperation and development among countries with different social systems, enabling peaceful dispute resolution.
• The principles have supported developing countries in achieving independence and improving North-South relations.
• They aim to protect the rights of developing countries and promote a fair international order.

The conference highlighted the ongoing importance of these principles in today’s world. Participants supported China’s initiatives like the Belt and Road cooperation, Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative. They emphasized the need for sovereign equality, mutual respect, peaceful development, and cooperative security.

China announced several measures to support Global South cooperation, including scholarships, training opportunities, and contributions to various development funds. Participants praised China’s achievements and efforts in promoting global peace and development.

The attendees expressed their readiness to work with China to further the principles of peaceful coexistence and build a better future for all.