Statement on the Rule of Law at the National and International Levels*

Abstract

In this Statement before the 6th Committee of the UNGA, the Chinese repre- sentative comments on the practices of the UN and of China with regard to the inter- national rule of law, the ways and means to build the rule of law at the international level, and those to build the rule of law at the national level. Mr Chairman, 1. This year, the GA incorporated for the first time the item entitled ''The rule of Law at the national and international levels'' into the agenda of the Sixth Committee. It is a very rel- evant and important initiative that will help expand the consensus of states on the strength- ening of the rule of law. Here I would like to make some comments on the following three aspects: the practices of the UN and of China with regard to the rule of international law; the ways and means to build the rule of law at the international level; and those to build the rule of law at the national level. 2. The rule of law is an important manifestation of human civilization and progress. The Chinese government is of the view that strengthening the rule of law will help maintain peace, promote development and enhance cooperation, and is therefore conducive to the achievement of the goal of building a harmonious world. 3. The UN has actively pushed for the development of the rule of law at the international level with considerable accomplishments. The Outcome Document of the 2005 World Summit listed the rule of law as a basic value and principle and called for its full realization both at the national and international levels. The UN GA, its Sixth Committee and the