In collaboration with Hong Kong Joint School Foreign Affairs Association and a number of prestigious bodies, AAIL was delighted to co-organise the 3rd Hong Kong Secondary School International Relations and Diplomacy Debating Competition, the ‘International Relations Cup’, at our office premises, the Former French Mission Building.

The ‘International Relations Cup’ aims to enhance Hong Kong students’ understanding of international relations and diplomatic affairs on the basis of recognised principles of international law.

Participating students demonstrated impressive dedication in researching and presenting their arguments on two pressing international issues: (1) whether the ‘Two-State Solution’ is the best approach to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and achieve long-term peace; and (2) whether strong military power is a prerequisite for maintain international peace and security.

By analysing complex global challenges, the competition encouraged participants to examine how established principles of international law contribute to the maintenance of international peace, security and cooperation among States.

The debates provided participants with an opportunity to examine a broad range of issues relating to international peace and security under the framework of international law, such as United Nations peacekeeping operations, and the importance of State-to-State dialogue in maintaining international stability.

In his remarks as the Guest of Honour and one of the judges at the Grand Final, Mr Adrian Lai JP, Deputy Secretary-General of AAIL, encouraged students to further explore international law and its practical relevance, emphasising its importance in understanding today’s increasingly complex international landscape.