Oceans are the common home of humanity. Promoting the sustainable development of oceans is a lofty mission of the international community. I extend my congratulations on the entry into force of the BBNJ Agreement on January 17, 2026, which is a triumph of multilateralism marking a new chapter in global ocean governance.

The BBNJ Agreement is a milestone international treaty under the auspices of the United Nations. Its effective implementation is vital to the well-being of all humanity. To better fulfill the commitments and mission of the Agreement, and uphold the fundamental interests of the international community, we need a Secretariat commensurate with its significance and promising future. We believe that Xiamen, China is the best and most ideal choice for the Secretariat.

China has all along championed true multilateralism, firmly defended the UN-centered international system and the international order based on international law, and worked with all parties to build a community with a shared future for humanity. China has attached great importance to the conservation and sustainable use of the ocean, and has been deeply involved in global ocean governance. Building on this, China is ready and able to make still greater contributions to the BBNJ Agreement.

Known as a garden city on the sea, Xiamen is a beautiful and livable city with a long history situated on China's southeast coast. For millennia, it has been a key link of the Maritime Silk Road, and nurtured an open and inclusive maritime culture. Today's Xiamen, with its world-renowned innovation environment, flourishing blue economy and pleasant living conditions, is a pivotal hub for international maritime cooperation. Its unremitting pursuit of sustainable marine development is fully consistent with the objectives of the BBNJ Agreement.

To ensure the Secretariat's immediate operational readiness, Xiamen has prepared a state-of-the-art and modern office building at a premium location and reserved space to meet its future needs. In addition, the Chinese Government promises to offer all-round preferential treatment and support for the operation of the Secretariat and the parties' involvement in BBNJ-related work.

We look forward to hosting the BBNJ Secretariat in Xiamen.

Give China this opportunity, together we will create a legend for the world.