Chinese Premier Li Qiang Calls for Stronger Commitment to Peace at 19th East Asia Summit

At the 19th East Asia Summit held in Vientiane on October 11, 2024, Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and called for a stronger commitment to these principles in the face of global challenges.

Premier Li noted that the world is experiencing a period of turbulence and transformation, with global economic recovery lacking momentum. He highlighted that maintaining peace, stability, and development is a major task for East Asia and the broader Asia-Pacific region.

“This year marks the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence,” Premier Li said. “Though simple in formulation, these fundamental principles have not lost their relevance but gained new meaning with the changing circumstances.”

Call for Stronger Commitment

He outlined three key areas where a stronger commitment to the Five Principles is necessary:

In a Changing and Turbulent World: Premier Li emphasized the need for tireless efforts to achieve peace in regions mired in conflict, making Earth a peaceful and harmonious home for all.
In a Development-Focused Asia: He stressed that Asia’s rapid development over past decades is due to countries treating each other as equals and fostering mutual respect and benefit. Continuation of this path is essential for future growth.
For Equity and Justice: Premier Li highlighted the growing call from developing countries to improve international governance systems and protect their legitimate rights. Upholding the Five Principles is crucial in working toward a more just and equitable international order.

Premier Li expressed China’s readiness to work with all parties to carry forward these principles and build a community with a shared future for mankind. He proposed three actions:

Safeguarding Peace and Tranquility: Supporting an ASEAN-centered, open, and inclusive regional architecture, and opposing actions that undermine regional stability.
Pursuing Mutual Benefit and Win-Win Outcomes: Implementing the Global Development Initiative, leveraging complementary strengths, and stepping up input in green transformation and digital economy.
Promoting Opening Up and Cooperation: Fully implementing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), advancing regional economic integration, and avoiding the politicization of trade and economic issues.

Stance on South China Sea

On the South China Sea issue, Premier Li reaffirmed China’s commitment to international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC). He emphasized that there are no obstacles to freedom of navigation or overflight in the South China Sea.

“China and ASEAN countries are actively advancing consultations on a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) and will strive for its early conclusion,” he stated. “Relevant countries outside the region should respect and support the joint efforts of China and regional countries to maintain peace and stability.”

Premier Li concluded by expressing China’s willingness to work with all parties to uphold the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and create a brighter future for the region and the world.

Reference(s):
Full Text: Speech by Chinese Premier Li Qiang at 19th East Asia Summit
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