As we mark the 70th anniversary of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence this year, in an interview with China Daily, former Guyanese president Donald Ramotar highlights the importance of peaceful coexistence as a foundation for development and prosperity.

Ramotar said that the world is at a crucial juncture when the question of war and peace should be taken seriously. Some countries need development to seek lasting peace and many need peace and stability to realize development. The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence address more general interests, especially when countries don’t share the same interests and concerns.