Beijing
Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence to address current conflicts and increase influence in the Global South. The principles were promoted by the Non-Aligned Movement and are known as ‘Panchsheel’ in India. Xi spoke at a conference in Beijing marking the 70th anniversary of these principles, which were first outlined in an agreement between China and India in 1954.
The Five Principles include mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, mutual non-aggression, mutual non-interference in internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence. These principles were included in China-India and China-Myanmar joint statements and adopted by the Non-Aligned Movement in the 1960s.
Xi linked these principles to his Global Security Initiative, which calls for joint security and a shared future for humanity. He mentioned that the principles align with the UN Charter and modern international relations.
China’s efforts to expand its influence include the Belt and Road Initiative, with significant investments in infrastructure projects in smaller countries. This has led to allegations of debt diplomacy. In recent years, China has faced increased competition from the US and EU and has worked to strengthen ties with Asian, African, and Latin American countries.
Xi announced the establishment of a Global South Research Centre, scholarships, training opportunities, and a youth leders’ program to support Global South cooperation.
