On June 22, 2026, the opening ceremony of the 2026 Xiamen Academy of International Law Summer Programme officially commenced at 9:00 a.m. Dr. Yu Zhanmin, Co-Secretary-General of the Administrative Council of Xiamen Academy of International Law, moderated the ceremony and extended a warm welcome to all guests and participants present.
Prof. Chen Peng, Dean of Xiamen University School of Law, delivered the first welcome address on behalf of the Law School. He reviewed the School’s centennial development and landmark achievements in international law,reaffirmed its long-standing support for the Academy, and encouraged participants to engage deeply with frontier issues in the field.
Following Prof. Chen Peng,Mr. Wang Chengquan,Director of Xiamen Arbitration Commission, delivered his welcome remarks. He introduced the programme’s focus on international arbitration and the Commission’s development progress, and urged participants to follow cutting-edge trends, broaden global horizons and enhance practical legal skills.
Following the welcome addresses, two eminent members of the International Law Commission were invited to deliver remarks as distinguished guests.
Dr. Penelope Ridings began her remarks by highlighting the 40-year sister-city relationship between Xiamen and Wellington, she praised the programme for bringing people together through a shared understanding of international law. “There is one international law, but it is important that all countries abide by it and look at how it is developed,” she noted.
Dr. Ridings also quoted a Māori proverb from the indigenous people of New Zealand , “What is the most important thing in the world?” The answer is people. She emphasized that people,relationships between people, and communities are the most important things in the world, and this summer programme exemplifies this.
Prof. Martins Paparinskis reflected on the role and viability of international law in contemporary affairs. He noted that the international community holds exceptionally high expectations for it, citing recent ICJ advisory opinions-including those on climate change,Israel's obligations,and the right to strike-as key examples of international law addressing the world’s most complex challenges.
He emphasized that international law is universal in nature, but it also bears striking regional diversities. Therefore, we have to absorb perspectives from all regions when constructing a truly global framework. Meanwhile, core principles such as sovereign equality and peaceful dispute settlement shall remain fully respected. Concluding his remarks, he highlighted the International Law Commission’s ongoing work on sea-level rise and state official immunity, acknowledging current challenges while expressing optimism for the future development of international law.
After the distinguished scholars’ insightful remarks, the ceremony entered the Academy work report session.
Dr. Yu Zhanmin first presented the working report on this year’s Summer Programme, briefly introducing the curriculum design, faculty lineup and activity arrangements.
Subsequently, Prof. Zeng Huaqun, Co-President of Xiamen Academy of International Law, delivered a comprehensive work report on behalf of the Academy. Prof. Zeng attributed the smooth organization and growing influence of the 2026 Summer Programme to its eminent international faculty, diverse participant base, and strong institutional support from all sectors. He highlighted key advancements of this year’s edition, including lectures by ILC members and expanded partnerships with legal and arbitration institutions, which bring together academics and practitioners to bridge theory and practice. Advocating the vision of “one world, one international law”, Prof. Zeng called on all participants to shoulder shared responsibility in addressing global challenges and jointly advancing the international rule of law.
At 9:30 am, the opening lecture began, moderated by Prof. Zhao Yun, Henry Cheng Professor in International Law and Associate Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Hong Kong, as well as Secretary-General of the Curatorium of Xiamen Academy of International Law.
Dr. Zhao Deming, Partner of Global Law Office, An Chen International Law Chair Professor at Xiamen University, delivered a lecture on the impact of economic sanctions and counter-sanctions on litigation and arbitration practices. He analyzed the scope and enforcement mechanism of US unilateral sanctions, explained compliance practices of US and UK tribunals and courts, and pointed out practical barriers Chinese enterprises face in seeking legal relief. He further put forward targeted suggestions on contract clause design and arbitration judicial support to help mitigate cross-border compliance risks.
The lecture was followed by a coffee break, where participants engaged in active exchanges with scholars and peers. The opening ceremony concluded in a warm and inspiring atmosphere, marking the official launch of this year's academic journey.
