Story perspectives

China Seeks to Host High Seas Treaty Secretariat in Xiamen

1/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

China proposed to host secretariat for a high seas treaty in Xiamen, announced by the Chinese mission to the United Nations.
Belgium and Chile were competing for this role as the treaty enters into force.
The move aims to shape international rules amid the United States' withdrawal from global agreements.
A decision-making body will coordinate with ocean-management organizations as 60 countries have ratified the treaty to protect biodiverse ocean areas.

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Story summary

China proposed to host secretariat for a high seas treaty in Xiamen, announced by the Chinese mission to the United Nations.
Belgium and Chile were competing for this role as the treaty enters into force.
The move aims to shape international rules amid the United States' withdrawal from global agreements.
A decision-making body will coordinate with ocean-management organizations as 60 countries have ratified the treaty to protect biodiverse ocean areas.