Speaking days after the founding of the IOMed in the SAR last Friday, Lam stressed that there is always an urgency for mediation on a global level.
For example, he noted that two years ago, Iran and the United Arab Emirates resumed diplomatic relations through the help of Chinese mediation.
“I think there’s major room for mediation. We shouldn’t allow the rather dejecting small amount of countries that disrespect international laws hurt our confidence. Rather, this highlights the need for mediation,” the minister said on Commercial Radio.
“We need to change the whole atmosphere, and show that the vast majority of countries in the world insist on using equal and peaceful means to settle disputes. We can use this new platform to demonstrate our persistence on such principles.”
Lam said non-member states can also use the mediation service, and they are most welcome to join the organisation going forward.
He noted that compared with arbitration or litigation, countries who take part in mediation are more likely to respect the results of the process, since both parties would have found common ground through direct negotiations.
Speaking on a TVB programme later, the minister said the renovation of the organisation’s base – at the Old Wan Chai Police Station – should be completed by the end of the year.
When it will start taking on cases depends on member states, and the formation of the organisation’s secretariat, he added.
The minister also stressed that the organisation is located in Hong Kong not only because of China’s backing, but it also reflects the reputation of the SAR’s rule of law, the city’s global status, safety and transport links.