ABSTRACT
In this chapter, Liu uses a Confucian lens to elaborate on China’s basic principles of mediation, and provides more evidence-based analysis through a case study of China’s mediation in Syria as a means to discuss China’s engagement, limitation, and contribution to mediation. Liu contends that as China is becoming a more important player in international mediation, it is pertinent and necessary to review and generalize the Chinese approach to mediation, which features in the balance between international responsibility and national interests, and in adherence to the non-interference and non-use of force principle with inclusive and incremental measures. While China still falls behind in the theory and practice of mediation, it is willing to learn and collaborate with diverse actors, including the conflict parties, regional and global powers, and legitimate regional and international institutions. Liu argues that, while maintaining its fundamental principles of non-intervention and non-use of force, China is currently working on integrating facilitative, evaluative, and transformative measures, to incrementally improve conditions. This approach ensures that mediation is more successful, balancing China’s national interests and international responsibilities in the long run.
