Distinguished President Mirjana Spoljaric, Excellencies, Colleagues,

It is a great pleasure to attend “From Respect to Reconciliation: IHL in Action for Lasting Peace” High-Level Panel Discussion hosted by the ICRC. Peace has always been the earnest aspiration of mankind. The world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, with hotspot conflicts, major-power rivalries and rising geopolitical tensions. The core principles of IHL are increasingly under threat, raising concerns about the future of our planet. Our gathering here today to explore how International Humanitarian Law (IHL) can contribute to lasting peace is not just a reflection on the legal framework itself—it is a reaffirmation of our shared responsibility for the future of mankind. Please allow me to share a few thoughts:

I. Strengthen IHL to Reinforce the Cornerstone of Peace 

History has shown that war inflicts immense suffering on countless families and hampers societal progress. Yet, even in the darkest moments, IHL has served as a guiding light, preserving human dignity and upholding the principles of civilization, laying the solid foundation for peace. IHL is not only a norm for the protection of civilians in wartime, but also an important legal pillar for the maintenance of international order and the elimination of the root causes of conflict. Today, however, the core principles of IHL are increasingly under threat, demanding our vigilance. The international community must take at least three critical actions: First, safeguarding the fundamental principles of IHL to minimize humanitarian suffering. As UN Secretary-General António Guterres has said, “Even wars have rules.”IHL exists to curb the horrors of war, preventing it from descending into unrestrained violence and destruction, guaranteeing civilians’ basic right to survival. Upholding these principles is a shared responsibility that must not be compromised. Second, ensuring the universal and uniform application of IHL, rejecting double standards. IHL must apply equally to all nations and conflict parties, without bias or selective application. Any attempt to manipulate or circumvent these rules is no different from giving a green light to violations, fueling grievances, and perpetuating cycles of violence. We must ensure that all States and parties to conflicts are treated equally before the law and that might does not prevail over right. Third, strengthening international cooperation to support humanitarian relief efforts. Civilians bear the heaviest burden in armed conflicts, and their safety and unhindered access to humanitarian aid, safety of humanitarian agencies and personnel must be guaranteed to avoid further humanitarian disasters. The global community must work together to provide life-saving assistance, help war-affected populations rebuild their homes and resume normal life.

II. Promote Talks and Political Solutions

For over 70 years, China has never initiated a war or conflict, making it one of the major powers with the strongest track record of promoting peace. China has consistently played its role as an active, impartial, and reliable mediator. We do not believe in force being omnipotent, nor do we seek selfish geopolitical gains or impose our will on others. China has issued position papers on a series of current international and regional hotspot issues, persistently facilitated peace talks, and played a constructive role in promoting political solutions. Our constructive role in promoting political solutions has been widely recognized by the international community. China’s approach to resolving hotspot issues is guided by five key principles: First, non-interference in internal affairs. We respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations, adhere to international law, and engage in mediation at the request and with the consent of the parties involved, in line with the UN Charter. Second, commitment to political solutions. The use of force should never be the default response to disputes, nor should sanctions and pressure be applied blindly. Talks and negotiations must be pursued with patience to find common ground that addresses the legitimate concerns of all sides without fueling the flames. Third, objectivity and impartiality. Our positions are based on the merits of each issue, without double standards, favoritism, or pursuit of geopolitical self-interest. Fourth, addressing both symptoms and root causes. While working to de-escalate crises and prevent spillover effects, we must also tackle underlying causes through comprehensive, long-term strategies. As the Chinese proverb says, “Don’t treat the head when it hurts and the feet when they ache.” Short-sighted or opportunistic approaches will only lead to recurring instability. Fifth, upholding true multilateralism. Conflict prevention is central to the UN’s mission. China supports a stronger UN role in global security governance and firmly opposes exclusive blocs that foster division and confrontation.

III. Advance Dialogue and Cooperation for Lasting Peace

Achieving lasting peace requires more than just upholding IHL—it demands unity, cooperation, and collective action. Peace is not a solo performance by any single country but a symphony played in harmony by all nations. In terms of international cooperation, China has long championed the vision of a community with a shared future for mankind, actively promoting the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative. Through the Belt and Road Initiative, we have provided vital support to improve infrastructure and livelihoods worldwide, particularly in developing countries. China is also a strong contributor to the UN peacekeeping missions. With more than 50,000 Chinese peacekeepers been sent, China is the second-largest financial contributor and the largest troop provider among the permanent members of the UN Security Council. On humanitarian responsibility, China has been a steadfast supporter of the UN and the International Red Cross Movement. We have provided emergency assistance to multiple countries and regions affected by natural disasters and conflicts, including dispatching medical teams, delivering food and medicine, and sending disaster relief experts to support post-crisis reconstruction. Looking ahead, China will continue to fulfill its responsibilities as a major country by promoting dialogue to bridge divides, fostering cooperation to advance peace, and leveraging development to reinforce stability. We will deepen South-South cooperation, promote a just and equitable global governance, and inject greater certainty and positive momentum into global peace and development.

Colleagues,

As one of the initiators of the IHL initiative, China stands ready to work with all parties to reaffirm our steadfast commitment to IHL and to promoting lasting peace. Last year, we commemorated the 75th anniversary of the Geneva Conventions, and this year marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations. As a Contracting Party to the Geneva Conventions and a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China stands firm in its commitment to the community with a shared future for mankind. We will work with all peace-loving nations to champion true multilateralism and contribute Chinese wisdom and strength to a world of lasting peace and universal security.