China applies to locate Xiamen City as host of marine biological diversity agreement secretariat: spokesperson

BEIJING, Jan. 20 (Xinhua) -- China has decided to present the candidate of Xiamen City to host the Secretariat of the Agreement on Marine Biological Diversity of Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction, and has informed the United Nations Secretary-General of the relevant decision on Jan. 16, a foreign ministry spokesperson said here on Tuesday.

The agreement, with 82 countries including China and the EU as its contracting parties, entered into force on Jan. 17.

In response to a related query at a daily press briefing, spokesperson Guo Jiakun said the milestone international treaty under the UN framework opens a new chapter in global governance in the marine field and shows the victory of multilateralism.

"As one of the first countries to sign the agreement and one of its first contracting parties, China welcomes and congratulates the entry into force of the agreement," Guo said.

He said that China upholds true multilateralism, supports the UN-centered international system, and attaches high importance to the conservation and sustainable use of oceans. As a responsible major country, China is deeply involved in global marine governance, and is willing to and capable of making greater contributions to the implementation of the treaty.

Xiamen, which is known as "garden on the sea," is a beautiful and livable city with a time-honored history marked by the spirit of openness and inclusiveness, Guo said, adding that the city is well-known around the world for its favorable innovation environment and thriving blue economy.

As an important hub for international marine cooperation, the city's relentless pursuit of sustainable development dovetails with the purposes and objectives of the agreement, he said. The city stands ready to provide the most satisfying work environment for the secretariat, and to help realize the purposes and objectives of the agreement.

"China believes that Xiamen is the most ideal host city for the secretariat of the agreement," the spokesperson said.

China is willing to step up communication and cooperation with all parties, jointly support the full, accurate and effective implementation of the agreement, and make greater contributions to advancing global marine governance and upholding international maritime order, Guo added.