Zimbabwe has officially joined 31 other nations in signing the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organisation for Mediation (IOMED), marking a significant step in global efforts to promote peaceful conflict resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.
The newly formed organisation, which will be headquartered in Hong Kong, is set to become the world’s first intergovernmental legal entity solely dedicated to the peaceful settlement of international disputes. Its creation aligns with the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter, emphasising diplomacy, non-violence, and international cooperation as key instruments for resolving global tensions.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, Mr. Li Junhua, praised the convention as a timely initiative that responds to today’s global challenges. He stressed that the agreement is deeply rooted in the principles of the UN Charter and aligns with the global vision for peace, sustainable development, and the rule of law.
“The Pact for the Future, adopted last September, reaffirmed our commitment to preventive diplomacy, dialogue, and the peaceful settlement of disputes,” said Mr. Li. “This convention resonates with that commitment. At a time when geopolitical tensions are rising, progress on the Sustainable Development Goals is faltering, and international collaboration is facing scepticism, initiatives like this are not just welcome—they are essential.
Zimbabwe Signs Landmark Mediation Convention to Advance Peaceful Conflict Resolution
He further highlighted how current global instability, trade restrictions, cuts to international aid, and other systemic issues have threatened hard-won development gains. “In this environment,” he said, “effective, accessible, and peaceful dispute resolution mechanisms are critical. Mediation provides a powerful, proven approach, built on dialogue, understanding, and compromise. It helps resolve not just the visible symptoms of conflict, but also the underlying causes.”
Chinese Foreign Minister, Hon. Wang Yi, also addressed the gathering, applauding the initiative as a milestone for global governance and cooperation. He noted that the principles behind the establishment of IOMED reflect the shared values of major civilisations.
“The launch of the International Organisation for Mediation exemplifies our collective commitment to peace and harmony,” Wang said. “Resolving disputes through dialogue and consultation is a universal value and aspiration among civilised societies. The IOMED is a forward-looking alternative to zero-sum thinking—it fosters friendly resolutions and encourages constructive international engagement.”
Minister Wang added that the IOMED would offer a valuable complement to existing mechanisms such as international litigation and arbitration. With its emphasis on flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and efficiency, IOMED could fill existing gaps in global conflict resolution and deliver results more tailored to the needs and cultures of the parties involved.
Representing Zimbabwe, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, expressed strong support for the convention, describing it as a vital platform for fostering international peace and understanding.
“Zimbabwe fully supports President Xi Jinping’s vision for the IOMED,” Professor Murwira said. “Our nation stands united with the People’s Republic of China in launching this historic convention. We are committed to its success and the peaceful resolution of disputes it seeks to promote.”
He described the convention as a vital step toward advancing global imperatives such as the rule of law, inclusiveness, and cooperation. “It upholds the spirit of peace, openness, and mutual respect. We believe this platform will bring prosperity, security, and harmony to the global community,” Murwira added.
Zimbabwe sees the IOMED as a powerful tool to drive diplomatic engagement, create mutual understanding, and foster a more peaceful and just world.On the sidelines of the signing ceremony, Zimbabwe and China engaged in bilateral discussions focusing on enhancing exchange programmes and cooperation between Harare and Beijing. The talks underscored the strong and growing diplomatic relationship between the two countries and their shared commitment to multilateralism and peaceful development.
As Zimbabwe joins the community of nations supporting the IOMED, its participation signals a broader commitment to global peacebuilding efforts and highlights the country’s role in promoting diplomacy over discord in an increasingly complex world.
