On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, Donald Ramotar, former President of Guyana, gave an exclusive interview to China Daily, in which he profoundly expounded on the importance of peaceful coexistence to the world today, emphasizing that it is a key cornerstone for countries around the world to achieve multi-faceted development.

President Ramotar pointed out that the world is currently at a historic crossroads, and the choice between war and peace is particularly urgent and critical. In this era, he deeply realized that whether it is a country seeking economic prosperity or a nation longing for social stability and progress, peace is a vital prerequisite. Some countries need to consolidate and prolong the fruits of peace through development, while more countries must release their development potential in a peaceful and stable environment.

He further emphasized that although there are inevitably differences and disagreements among countries in the process of pursuing their own interests, the core concepts of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence advocated by the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence provide us with a valuable platform to transcend differences and seek common interests. These principles are not only the inheritance and development of the traditional wisdom of international relations, but also an important guide for coping with the complex and changing international situation today.

President Ramotar called on all countries to cherish the value and significance of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and take them as the basic norms to guide international relations. By strengthening dialogue and cooperation, enhancing mutual understanding and trust, jointly responding to global challenges and threats, and promoting the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.Editor/Cheng Ting