Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi joined representatives from eight countries in Hong Kong on Friday to formalize the establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed), a landmark initiative aimed at fostering peaceful dispute resolution. The signing ceremony underscored growing international support for dialogue-driven solutions amid complex geopolitical challenges.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized IOMed’s role in “strengthening the international rule of law” during meetings with foreign ministers from Zimbabwe, Benin, Switzerland, Pakistan, Cameroon, Mauritania, Nepal, and Laos. The diverse participation highlighted the platform’s appeal to both developing and developed nations.
“The IOMed reflects the shared aspirations of developing countries and offers a new option for resolving disputes through consultation,” Wang stated, positioning the body as a complement to existing global governance frameworks. Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis praised the initiative’s “pragmatic approach to multilateral cooperation,” signaling potential for cross-regional collaboration.
Analysts suggest the Hong Kong-hosted event could enhance the city’s role as a neutral hub for diplomatic engagement, while reinforcing China’s advocacy for non-confrontational conflict resolution mechanisms.
