"The only ground on which a neutral State can claim respect at the hands of belligerents is, that, so far as she is concerned, their rights are protected"

This quote by Gerrit Smith suggests that a neutral state can only be respected by belligerents if it is seen to be safeguarding their rights. This implies that a neutral state must remain objective and not take sides in a dispute, and need to guarantee that the rights of both belligerents are appreciated. This could include protecting the rights of both belligerents to liberty of movement, access to resources, and the right to self-determination. It also implies that a neutral state ought to not interfere in the conflict, but must rather serve as a mediator and supply a platform for dialogue in between the belligerents. This quote highlights the significance of neutrality in global relations, and the need for a neutral state to stay objective and secure the rights of both belligerents.