In a significant boost for peaceful conflict management, global leaders gathered in Hong Kong on Friday to sign the Convention establishing the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed). The new body aims to reshape how states resolve disputes by placing dialogue and consultation at the heart of international law.
The ceremony was officiated by Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, who underscored IOMed's role in reflecting the shared aspirations of developing nations for fair and efficient dispute settlement.
Wang Yi held bilateral meetings with counterparts from key regions, emphasizing collaboration and rule-based governance:
- Zimbabwean Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Amon Murwira
- Beninese Foreign Minister Olushegun Adjadi Bakari
- Swiss Federal Councilor and Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis
- Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar
- Cameroonian Minister of External Relations Lejeune Mbella Mbella
- Mauritanian Foreign Minister Mohamed Salem Ould Merzoug
- Nepali Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba
- Lao Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith
These discussions highlighted how IOMed could serve as a neutral platform for emerging markets and traditionally underrepresented nations. By streamlining dialogue-driven mediation, the organization seeks to offer a practical alternative to arbitration and litigation, fostering mutual trust and efficiency in global affairs.
As policymakers, entrepreneurs, and activists watch closely, the launch of IOMed represents a promising step toward strengthening international rule of law and ensuring that discourse, not force, remains the cornerstone of dispute resolution.
Reference(s):
Wang Yi, foreign officials highlight IOMed's role disputes settlement
cgtn.com
