Y.E. Mr. Wang Yi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China,
Excellencies,
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is with profound honor for the United Nations to join you to witness this historic signing of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation.
On behalf of the United Nations and the Secretary General, I warmly congratulate and commend all parties involved. This marks a significant step forward, towards a more peaceful, just and sustainable world, as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations.
The UN Charter reminds us of our shared duty to save succeeding generations from the scourge of wars. It calls upon parties to seek solutions to disputes through peaceful means, including mediation.
Similarly, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development underscores the importance of equal access to justice and inclusive institutions to ensure peace and sustainable development.
The Pact for the Future, adopted last September, reaffirmed our commitment to preventive diplomacy, dialogue, and the peaceful settlement of disputes.
This Convention, therefore, resonates strongly with the spirit and principles of the UN Charter and the UN’s pursuit of peace, sustainable development, and rule of law.
Excellencies,
Today’s ceremony is timely amidst heightened geopolitical tensions, backsliding on the SDGs, and increased skepticism for global collaboration.
Rising trade barriers, cuts to foreign aid, and systemic challenges have jeopardized global stability and development gains.
Therefore, effective, accessible, and peaceful dispute resolutions remain critical.
Mediation offers a proven path forward. Rooted in dialogue, understanding, trust and compromise, it empowers parties to craft solutions that address not only the symptoms of conflicts, but also their root causes. Evidence suggests mediation can be faster, cheaper, and, crucially, better at preserving or restoring relationships than litigation or arbitration.
The pursuit of peace and development through dialogue is not new. Rich traditions of resolving differences peacefully are embedded in cultures and civilization of countries worldwide, emphasizing respect, consensus-building, restorative justice, and harmonious coexistence.
This Convention builds upon these traditions, offering a framework that respects and incorporates diverse approaches to mediation.
I am confident that the IOMed, headquartered in Hong Kong SAR of China, will amplify these values.
It will provide a platform that can help share best practices and facilitate capacity building in mediation.
It will also serve an essential role in mediating cross-border commercial and investment disputes, accelerating resolutions to complex challenges.
Excellencies,
2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations. Its convening power, impartiality, and decades of experience in conflict prevention and resolution are indispensable assets.
Through its various bodies, the UN continues its dedicated work to promote confidence-building, mediate disputes and help harmonize trade law.
The UN stands ready to partner closely with the IOMed, leveraging our respective strengths and expertise to promote mediation at all levels.
Today’s signing of the Convention is a testament to our shared commitment to peaceful coexistence and dialogue.
Let us work together, with dedication and purpose, to ensure that the IOMed becomes a vital force in shaping a more peaceful and prosperous future for all.
Thank you.