On June 28, 2024, President Xi Jinping of China delivered a significant address at the conference commemorating the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. This address underscored China’s historical commitment to these principles and their continued relevance in modern international relations. Xi’s speech can be analyzed through several key themes:
1. Historical Context and Enduring Relevance
Xi began by situating the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence within the broader historical context of the post-World War II era. The principles were initially articulated to address the needs of newly independent nations and to counteract the prevailing Cold War tensions. They were intended to establish a foundation for peaceful international relations based on mutual respect, non-aggression, non-interference, equality, and mutual benefit. Xi emphasized that these principles have transcended their historical origins to become universal norms in international law and relations, showing their robustness and adaptability over seven decades.
2. Benchmark for International Relations
The Five Principles were presented as a historic benchmark for international relations, fully aligning with the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter. Xi highlighted their role in promoting mutuality and equality among nations, thereby enhancing the rule of law in the international arena. These principles have provided a comprehensive set of norms for peaceful coexistence, applicable across political, security, economic, and diplomatic domains, and have contributed significantly to global peace and stability.
3. Guiding Relations Between Diverse Nations
A central theme of Xi’s address was the role of the Five Principles in guiding relations between countries with different social systems. By adhering to these principles, countries with varied ideologies, cultures, and development stages can foster mutual trust, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence. Xi argued that these principles offer a constructive alternative to antagonistic and confrontational mindsets, such as bloc politics and spheres of influence, thereby promoting global peace and cooperation.
4. Support for Developing Countries
Xi emphasized the Five Principles’ impact on developing countries’ efforts to achieve cooperation and self-reliance. The principles have inspired solidarity and mutual support among countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, encouraging them to resist foreign interference and pursue independent development paths. This has bolstered South-South cooperation and improved North-South relations, contributing to global development and equity.
5. Reforming the International Order
Another critical aspect of Xi’s speech was the contribution of the Five Principles to the reform and improvement of the international order. These principles oppose imperialism, colonialism, and hegemonism, advocating for a more just and equitable global system. They provide a framework for protecting the interests of smaller and weaker nations against power politics, thus promoting a multipolar world where all countries can participate equally in global governance.
6. Vision for a Shared Future
Xi’s address seamlessly linked the historical significance of the Five Principles with China’s contemporary vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind. This vision extends the spirit of the Five Principles into the future, emphasizing equality, mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence among nations. Xi highlighted China’s commitment to global peace, security, and prosperity, advocating for international cooperation to address common challenges and achieve shared development goals.
7. Practical Measures and Initiatives
In addition to articulating these grand visions, Xi outlined several practical measures China would take to support global development and cooperation. These include establishing a Global South research center, providing scholarships and training opportunities, launching a Global South youth leaders program, and continuing to support various international development funds. These initiatives reflect China’s commitment to fostering global development and addressing the needs of developing countries.
8. Commitment to Peaceful Development
Throughout his address, Xi reaffirmed China’s resolve to pursue peaceful development and avoid the paths of colonialism and hegemony. He emphasized China’s role in promoting global peace and stability, highlighting its constructive contributions to resolving international conflicts and crises. Xi also reiterated China’s commitment to expanding global partnerships based on equality, openness, and cooperation, and to upholding true multilateralism in global governance.
Conclusion
President Xi Jinping’s address on the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence highlighted the enduring significance of these principles in guiding international relations. By linking them to contemporary global challenges and China’s vision for a shared future, Xi underscored their relevance in promoting global peace, cooperation, and development. The address also demonstrated China’s commitment to playing a constructive role in the international community and fostering a more just and equitable global order.
Malik M. Shafiq is the Director of “The Europe Today”. An expert on Current Affairs and History.
