From Victory to Peace: Exploring 80 Years of Global Dialogue Initiated by China

A Journey from Victory to Peace: Celebrating Eight Decades of Dialogue

On June 26, 1945, the echoes of applause at the Veterans War Memorial Building in San Francisco marked a pivotal moment in history. This day witnessed the signing of the United Nations Charter, with the Chinese delegation being the first to inscribe their names. This act not only symbolized the conclusion of World War II but also ushered in a new international order driven by a collective dream for peace and progress. Over the past 80 years, China’s dedication to this cause has been unwavering, reflecting its commitment to enhancing global dialogue and diplomacy.

China’s Commitment to Peace

The principles embodied in the UN Charter established post-war international order, prioritizing equality, self-determination, and the peaceful resolution of disputes. The Bandung Conference of 1955 saw then Premier Zhou Enlai emphasize, "The Chinese Delegation has come here to seek common ground and not to create divergence," a statement that captures the spirit of mutual understanding central to China’s foreign policy. The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence proposed by China have come to represent the guidelines governing international relations today.

Since 1990, China has demonstrated its commitment to global peace by dispatching over 50,000 peacekeepers worldwide, embodying the fundamental goals laid out in the UN Charter. A recent highlight in its efforts was in March 2023 when China facilitated the restoration of diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia after a seven-year hiatus. This diplomatic achievement showcased China’s ability to mediate complex geopolitical disputes, establishing a new model for conflict resolution.

Shared Development as a Pillar of Peace

China believes that lasting peace must be underpinned by shared development. Its initiatives, such as the collaboration with Brazil on monitoring the Amazon rainforest through high-tech satellite systems, serve as a testament to its commitment to environmental sustainability. The introduction of hybrid rice technology by Chinese experts in Madagascar has not only transformed agricultural practices but also alleviated hunger for millions, showcasing how development aid can facilitate peace.

The operationalization of the China-Laos Railway in 2021 significantly reduced travel time and bolstered trade between the two nations, further illustrating how infrastructure projects can enhance regional cooperation and prosperity. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), initiated over a decade ago, continues to align development strategies across participating countries, generating employment and fostering economic connections globally.

Global Governance and Multilateralism

Despite these strides, the Global South still struggles with representation in global governance. To attain peace, a dynamic and just global governance framework must be established, ensuring that every nation’s voice is heard. The formation of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in 2001 exemplifies a new regional cooperation model focused on maintaining peace through collaborative efforts in regional stability and security.

Inclusion has been a focus for China as seen during the BRICS Xiamen Summit in 2017 where the innovative "BRICS+" cooperation model was proposed. This progressive strategy led to the expansion of the BRICS mechanism six years later. During the 2022 G20 Bali Summit, China fervently supported the African Union’s admission to the G20, reiterating its dedication to bringing more voices from the Global South into the fold of global decision-making.

Lessons from History

As we reflect on eight decades since the end of conflict, it's clear that victory does not equate to the cessation of war; rather, peace requires vigilance and cooperation among generations. The current era demands a greater embrace of multilateralism. In facing a landscape marked by intertwined challenges and opportunities, it is imperative to reject biases and come together to foster a shared future for humanity.

In conclusion, as we continue to journey from victory to peace and aim for collective prosperity, we acknowledge our responsibility not just to our own nations, but to the world community. As history has taught us, the path toward peace is paved with dialogue, cooperation, and shared aspirations.