This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, a framework that has significantly shaped international relations over the past seven decades.
Seventy years ago, on December 31, 1953, then-Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai introduced the Five Principles to an Indian government delegation. These 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—aimed to foster a new kind of international relations and build a better world.
In the following year, Premier Zhou expanded the application of these principles through visits to India and Burma (now Myanmar). The joint statements released with these nations not only solidified these principles in bilateral relations but also set a precedent for peaceful international cooperation.
The influence of the Five Principles extended further in 1955 when they were incorporated into the Ten Principles of Bandung at the Asian-African Conference in Indonesia. This inclusion underscored their relevance, especially as third-world countries sought a fairer international political and economic order. Today, the Five Principles are widely accepted by developing countries, underscoring their enduring impact on global diplomacy.
In 1970, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the \"Declaration on Principles of International Law concerning Friendly Relations and Co-operation among States in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations,\" further cementing the Five Principles as a cornerstone of modern international law.
Contributing to World Peace
For seven decades, the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence have been recognized globally as essential norms governing international relations. Indriana Kartini, a researcher from Indonesia's National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), highlights their universality and positive impact on regional stability and world peace.
As of early 2024, 183 countries have established diplomatic relations with China, with the Five Principles embedded in almost all diplomatic communiques and bilateral treaties. This widespread adoption underscores the principles' foundational role in shaping peaceful and cooperative international engagements.
Wang Yiwei, a professor at Renmin University of China's School of International Studies, described the concept of building a community with a shared future for mankind as an evolution and enrichment of the Five Principles. This vision continues to drive China's diplomatic efforts on the global stage.
To commemorate this significant milestone, China is set to host a conference in Beijing on Friday, marking the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning announced that the events will include a commemorative conference, a luncheon, and parallel forums. Chinese President Xi Jinping will attend and deliver a speech, while Premier Li Qiang will preside over the event.
As the world continues to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence remain a beacon for fostering mutual respect, cooperation, and peace among nations.
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70 years on, Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence stand stronger
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