I would like to start by thanking The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to South Africa, the People’s Government of Shandong Province and The Chinese People’s Association for Peace and Disarmament, for inviting all of us, non-governmental organisations, academic institutions, civil society, and peace makers to exchange knowledge and share valuable ideas at this Commemorative Conference. The theme “Upholding a Shared Future to Build a World of Peaceful Coexistence”, is especially appropriate as this year also marks the 70th Anniversary of The Initiation of The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence by Premier Zhou Enlai.
As reflected and agreed upon by those attending the Conference hosted by His Excellency President Xi Jinping in Beijing in June of this year, The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence provide a solid basis for international cooperation and mutual development.
The Principles are guidelines for harmony that offers today’s interconnected world a roadmap where every nation can thrive by creating a system of global governance that promotes and prioritises equitable and inclusive growth and industrialisation, while fostering sustainable prosperity for all.
The observation and commemoration of the International Day of Peace, reminds us of our shared responsibility to foster greater cooperation within our global community. We are called upon to extend our reach, embrace more nations, and work collaboratively to build a more inclusive world.
Achieving this requires a profound understanding and appreciation of the unique complexities of each nation. President Xi Jinping at the 75th anniversary of the United Nations in 2020 stated:
“The UN is the most universal, representative, and authoritative intergovernmental organization and an important symbol of multilateralism. China will continue to support the work of the UN to promote world peace and security.”
By doing so, we can strengthen our bonds, enhance solidarity, and ensure the security and coordination of international affairs. Ultimately, this collective effort will advance our vision of global peace and sustainable development.
The history of the Chinese People’s Association for Peace and Disarmament, marks their consistent efforts since their establishment in 1985 to create numerous platforms to foster mutual understanding, build friendships, and enhance cooperation between China and the global community. Their initiatives have continually promoted innovation and safeguarded world peace.
In 1992, The People’s Republic of China acceded to the United Nations Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons – the centrepiece of global efforts to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons, to promote cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and to further the goal of nuclear disarmament and general and complete disarmament.1
Every five years an international Review Conference is held to evaluate the operation of the Treaty since the Treaty went into effect in 1970. Each conference has sought to reach agreement on a final declaration that would assess the implementation of the Treaty’s provisions and make recommendations on measures to further strengthen it. 2
On 11 May 1995, the Treaty was extended indefinitely. With 191 States parties, it is the most widely adhered to treaty in the field of nuclear non-proliferation, peaceful uses of nuclear energy and nuclear disarmament.3
Regularly updating knowledge and sharing new information, particularly in the context of international agreements and global issues such as peace and disarmament, is crucial in order for us to understand contemporary contexts and adapt to changing circumstances.
The world has changed significantly since the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons came into effect in 1970. Geopolitical dynamics, technological advancements, and regional conflicts all impact nuclear non-proliferation efforts.
Similar to the annual meetings of The Chinese People’s Association for Peace and Disarmament, regular Review Conferences ensure that the Treaty remains relevant and effective. This allows for continuous dialogue and adjustment of strategies in response to evolving global security landscapes and regional tensions.
These gatherings help reaffirm the commitment of member states to common peace objectives and to each other and provide platforms for countries to demonstrate their dedication to disarmament and non-proliferation.
The Chinese People’s Association for Peace and Disarmament reflects China’s major role in global peace efforts and assists the rest of the world to gauge their own progress and strategies. We should be open to listen, learn, and make necessary adjustments based on new developments and insights.
Effective peacebuilding and disarmament require a holistic approach that integrates various aspects of conflict analysis and resolution. Collaboration between governments, non-governmental organisations, and local communities is essential for creating comprehensive strategies that identify factors with the potential to trigger off conflict and address both immediate and long-term challenges.
The International Day of Peace acts as a focal point for us to reaffirm our role and commitment and at the same time celebrate the achievements made by China and the world in the quest to establish a sense of community with a shared future for humankind.
I thank you.
1 https://treaties.unoda.org/t/npt/declarations/CHN_moscow_ACC
2 https://www.un.org/en/conferences/npt2020/background
3 https://www.iaea.org/topics/non-proliferation-treaty
