Respect for International Law
The most legitimate and effective resource available to Chile when it comes to exercising its rights in the international arena is respect and utmost adherence to the legal instruments that govern international relations. International law is, in turn, the main mechanism by which it is possible to limit the use of force in relations among States. In this regard, its observance is an essential condition for the preservation of peace and security in the international system.
Among the various basic norms that define and shape international rule of law and promote peaceful relations among States, Chile places great value on the following:
- Validity of, and respect for, treaties: International stability and peaceful coexistence of States are essential conditions for the development of nations. Respect for acquired commitments is, in this regard, a fundamental principle of our society. Therefore, in the international field, Chile places great importance on the fundamental value of treaties as a necessary condition for promoting peaceful international relations, legal security and cooperation among States through clear, stable rules.
- Peaceful settlement of disputes: By this principle, we renew our commitment to the prohibition of the use or threatened use of force in international relations, which are contrary to the principles set forth in the United Nations Charter, as well as our conviction that diplomacy and law are the only legitimate means for the settlement of international disputes. Chile, as a founding member of the United Nations (UN), abides by the strict application of its principles, supporting all initiatives leading to peaceful solutions to international conflicts.
- Independence and respect for sovereignty: Chile attaches great importance to the principle of equality among sovereign States as an essential basis for respect and peaceful coexistence among nations. Thus, our country is against intervention of one or more nations in the internal affairs of another, and believes that only international law can establish requirements and limitations upon them. Political and economic self-determination of States and territorial integrity are fundamental values in that regard. While recognizing the evolution of international law in issues like human rights, we are of the view that humanitarian actions in qualified cases, authorized within the framework of the United Nations, can be used in situations that threaten or endanger the population.
- Territorial Integrity: Chile attaches great importance to the preservation of its territorial integrity and its political independence through diplomacy and the tools offered by international law. The characteristics of the Chilean territory, which includes maritime and air spaces as well as the Chilean Antarctic territory, imposes significant demands and responsibilities for our country.
