New international mediation body established in Hong Kong

This first international inter-governmental legal organization in the world specializing in the settlement of international disputes by mediation will be headquartered in Hong Kong, strengthening the city’s position as an international legal and dispute resolution services center.

The establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) marks the first time for the headquarters of an international inter-governmental organization to be based in Hong Kong.

The IOMed was set up in Hong Kong on May 30 during a high-level ceremony attended by representatives of the United Nations and more than 80 countries around the world, including China.

Addressing the ceremony was Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Wang Yi. Mr Wang said that as an innovative step in international rule of law, the IOMed has great significance in the history of international relations. The establishment of the IOMed is an actualization of the purposes and principles of the UN Charter; it is also an example of a civilizational belief in harmony and an epitome of inclusiveness in the culture of the rule of law. The IOMed will be headquartered in Hong Kong, whose handover is itself a success story of peaceful settlement of international disputes. The success of the "one country, two systems" principle has created brighter prospects for prosperity and stability in Hong Kong. Mr Wang said that he looks forward to all parties working together to let the IOMed play a positive role in peacefully resolving international disputes for a brighter future for humanity.

Also addressing the ceremony was Hong Kong’s Chief Executive, Mr John Lee. Mr Lee said Hong Kong is the only common law jurisdiction in China. With a robust, efficient and well-respected legal system, as well as world-class legal and dispute resolution services professionals, Hong Kong is also the most preferred seat of arbitration in the Asia-Pacific region. Hong Kong goes all out to build bridges with the world and will actively support and facilitate the IOMed's valuable work in settling international disputes through mediation, thereby providing a pathway for countries to resolve international disputes based on mutual respect and understanding.

The Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation is the legal basis for the establishment of the IOMed, which covers important provisions such as the functions, governance structure, operation, scope of cases accepted, privileges and immunities of the IOMed. With the signing of the Convention on May 30, the IOMed will be formally established after signatories' ratification of the Convention and be headquartered in Hong Kong.

The IOMed headquarters is expected to be operational by the end of this year or early next year at the earliest, providing friendly, flexible, economical and efficient mediation services to all parties, thereby strengthening Hong Kong's role as an international dispute resolution services center and a capital for international mediation. Fully harnessing the institutional strengths under the "one country, two systems" principle and integrating into the national development strategy, Hong Kong will contribute to building a world of peace and justice.