HK cements role as mediation capital with IOMed launch

31-05-2025 17:08 HKT

Representatives from over 30 countries, including China and countries from Asia, Africa, Latin America and Europe, jointly signed the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation in Hong Kong on May 30.

Hong Kong became the headquarters of the newly established International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) on Friday, marking a historic step as the world’s first intergovernmental body dedicated to resolving international disputes through mediation. The signing ceremony of the founding convention attracted senior representatives from over 80 countries and 20 international organizations, including the United Nations, with 33 nations signing as founding members.

Member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China, Wang Yi, speaks at the Signing Ceremony of the Convention on the Establishment of the International Organization for Mediation and is the first to sign the Convention on behalf of China.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who signed the convention on behalf of China, described the IOMed as a significant advancement in international rule of law. He noted that Hong Kong’s selection as the headquarters reflects its successful history of peaceful dispute resolution, particularly through its smooth handover and the continued success of the "one country, two systems" principle.

HKSAR’s Chief Executive John Lee speaks at the signing ceremony.

HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee thanked the central government for its support and expressed appreciation for the international community’s confidence in Hong Kong. He emphasized that the IOMed would provide a neutral platform for nations to settle conflicts through dialogue, regardless of cultural or legal differences. With geopolitical tensions rising, he said, mediation has become an increasingly vital tool for maintaining peace.

Lee highlighted Hong Kong’s strengths as a global dispute resolution hub, including its bilingual common law system, internationally respected judiciary, and status as the preferred arbitration center in the Asia-Pacific region. The IOMed’s headquarters will be located in the restored former Wan Chai Police Station, a heritage site expected to be operational by the end of the year.

A subsequent Global Forum on International Mediation discussed the organization’s potential in addressing interstate and commercial disputes. Lee reiterated Hong Kong’s role as a bridge between nations, contrasting it with growing global divisions. He pointed to the city’s unique position under China’s support while maintaining strong international ties, reinforcing its ability to foster cooperation.