By Xu Li – Presenter at CGTN‑French
As the concept of a “community of shared future for the ocean,” proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2019, enters its seventh year, it invites deeper reflection on this space that covers more than 70% of the Earth’s surface. The ocean, cradle of life, a channel of exchanges, and a lever for sustainable development, is today at the heart of humanity’s future balance. Yet it faces growing pressures, both environmental and geopolitical.
Ocean governance now stands at a decisive turning point. On one side, climate change, marine pollution, overexploitation of resources, and biodiversity loss pose global challenges that no nation can tackle alone. On the other, strategic rivalries, maritime disputes, and competition for resources risk fragmenting this shared space. The current situation in the Strait of Hormuz is a striking example. The ocean, which should be a factor of unity, risks becoming a source of friction.
In this context, President Xi Jinping’s idea of a “community of shared future for the ocean” offers a vision based on interdependence. It breaks away from zero‑sum confrontation, emphasizing shared responsibility and cooperation. While not a single solution, this approach contributes to the international debate on more inclusive maritime governance.
Three essential dimensions structure this vision. In terms of security, it highlights building trust mechanisms and resolving conflicts peacefully, in a context of persistent maritime tensions. Concrete initiatives, such as China’s participation in escort missions in the Gulf of Aden, illustrate the potential for international cooperation to secure sea routes.
On the environmental front, it stresses the need to strengthen marine ecosystem protection and promote a more balanced relationship between human activity and the ocean. Efforts in coastal protection, ecosystem restoration, and pollution control in recent years reflect growing awareness of these issues. This vision echoes a phrase often repeated by President Xi Jinping: “We must cherish the ocean as we cherish our lives.”
On the development side, it underscores the potential of an open and cooperative blue economy, offering opportunities for all. Initiatives such as the development of the “Maritime Silk Road” or integrated logistics platforms like “Silk Road Maritime” embody this idea of greater connectivity and economic cooperation around maritime spaces.
The challenge now is to move from principles to implementation. Adherence to multilateral frameworks, respect for international law, and the development of concrete cooperation—whether in scientific research, environmental protection, or maritime infrastructure—are key to making these orientations credible.
The future of the oceans cannot be separated from that of humanity. Faced with borderless challenges, no purely national solution can prevail. In this perspective, various initiatives, including those advanced by China, deserve to be examined, discussed, and tested through international dialogue. Only this path will allow the ocean to remain a space of cooperation rather than division, for the benefit of future generations.