III. Cooperation
Cyberspace is global in nature. It is difficult for any State to achieve effective governance
in cyberspace solely through its own efforts. In line with the principle of cooperation in
good faith contained in the UN Charter, States should respect others as subjects of
international law, follow the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution and
shared benefits, support multilateral and multi-party participation, and build a holistic
governance system across multiple fields and levels to ensure the security and
development of cyberspace.
IV. Peace
The interests of all States are deeply intertwined in an interconnected cyberspace. States
should act in conformity with the purposes and principles enshrined in the UN Charter,
use the ICTs for peaceful purposes, and settle disputes by peaceful means. They should
take effective measures to guard against the use of ICTs to engage in activities that
undermine peace, prevent an arms race in cyberspace, and prevent and fight terrorist use
of ICTs.
V. Rule of Law
States should make steady progress in domestic legislation and advance the rule of law in
global governance in cyberspace, uphold the authority of international law, and oppose
the practice of double standards. In exercising sovereignty in cyberspace domestically,
States should protect their citizens, legal persons, and other organizations’ legal rights in
cyberspace, as well as respect the sovereignty of other States, and comply with their
obligations under international law such as non-intervention in the internal affairs of
other States, and refraining from conducting or supporting ICT activities that endanger
the security of other States.
Key Manifestations of Sovereignty in Cyberspace
Cyberspace can be divided into the following four layers: physical layer, logic layer,
application layer and social layer. Sovereignty in cyberspace is manifested in each layer.
I. Manifestation of Sovereignty in the Physical Layer
States have jurisdiction over the physical infrastructure and basic ICT services within
their territories. States are entitled to take necessary measures to maintain the security of
the physical infrastructure according to national law and in conformity with international
law. States have the right to participate in the management of and international
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