World Peace Discussed at Forum

Security Appeals of Smaller Countries

Mr. de Villepin stressed the strength of emerging markets. He said that a multi-polarized world is unfolding as society enters the 21st century. The predominance of one single big power in international affairs is a thing of the past, and a number of emerging market countries, including China, Brazil and India, are taking center stage. They have shown higher efficiency on issues such as construction of multilateral mechanisms, and proved better representation and legitimacy. Response to unconventional security issues, such as stability on the international financial market and global warming, also need to pool the strengths of the whole international community, including emerging market countries, Mr. de Villepin said.

One feature that sets the World Peace Forum apart from other similar international events such as the Munich Security Conference and the Asian Security Summit is the larger number of participants from developing countries, and greater attention to the security appeals of medium-sized and small countries.

As Bola Akinterinwa, head of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, said in his speech at the forum, the current security mechanisms primarily address the security issues of developed countries, but those directly effecting developing countries also deserve broad attention. No rules or norms can be universally accepted if they are not widely discussed under effective and democratic mechanisms.

Surinamese Ambassador to China Lloyd Lucien Pinas shared the view that dialogue and diplomatic measures, rather than military force, are now the common practice in pursuing security and peace. Only by sharing resources and embracing the principles of equality and inclusiveness can countries eradicate misunderstandings and enhance cooperation and development.