This week, the Chinese mainland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally applied to host the secretariat of the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ), often called the High Seas Treaty, in Xiamen, Fujian Province. In a letter dated January 16, submitted to United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, the Chinese mainland laid out its hosting proposal for the newly ratified treaty.
The BBNJ agreement entered into force on January 17, 2026, marking a milestone in international ocean governance. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun described the pact as a landmark under the United Nations framework and underscored the Chinese mainland’s commitment to marine conservation and the sustainable use of ocean resources. “As a responsible major country, the Chinese mainland has been deeply involved in global ocean governance and is both willing and capable of making greater positive contributions to the implementation of the agreement,” he said.
Known as a “garden city by the sea,” Xiamen boasts a vibrant innovation ecosystem and a rapidly growing blue economy. Guo highlighted the city’s role as an international maritime hub and said its long-standing dedication to marine sustainability aligns closely with the treaty’s objectives. “We believe Xiamen is the most suitable host city for the secretariat,” he added.
By bidding to host the secretariat, the Chinese mainland aims to strengthen collaboration with treaty members, support accurate and effective implementation of the High Seas Treaty, and contribute further to global ocean governance and the maintenance of the international maritime order.
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China applies to host UN High Seas Treaty secretariat in Xiamen
cgtn.com
