What do K-pop diplomacy, international trade deals, and climate partnerships have in common? They all thrive under a 70-year-old framework you’ve probably never heard of – until now.
The OG Rulebook for Global Harmony
Back in 1953, then-Chinese Premier Zhou Enlai dropped what would become the ultimate peace playlist: the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. Think of them as the golden rules for global friendships:
- Respect each other’s turf
- No throwing shade (or missiles)
- Mind your own business
- Share the wins
- Keep it chill
These principles went viral at the 1955 Bandung Conference (Asia-Africa’s collab of the century), shaping modern diplomacy like TikTok shapes trends. Over 180 countries now groove to this beat in their China ties!
Why Gen Z Should Care
Indonesian researcher Indriana Kartini puts it best: ‘If all countries follow these principles, we’d have fewer drama llamas in global politics.’ From ending colonial hangovers to tackling climate change, these 1950s principles are low-key driving today’s youth-led movements for fairness.
Psst… this Friday? Beijing’s hosting a mega-conference with President Xi Jinping dropping wisdom on how these 70-year-old principles fuel today’s ‘shared future for mankind’ vision. Spoiler: It’s about leveling up, not calling shots.
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70 years on, Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence stand stronger
cgtn.com