President, 

I thank Special Envoy Geir Pedersen and Director Ramesh Rajasingham for their briefings. I have listened carefully to the statement by Ms. Helen Hayford.

China has been a firm supporter for a political solution to the Syrian issue. The international community should continue to promote a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political process. We welcome Special Envoy Pedersen’s extensive engagement with all parties in accordance with Council Resolution 2254. We hope the Arab League and relevant regional countries will strengthen communication and cooperation with the Syrian Government and play a constructive role in promoting a political solution. We support the Syrian Government in taking necessary measures to combat terrorism. We call on the international community to observe international law and Security Council resolutions, reject double standards, and combat all terrorism in Syria with zero tolerance. 

Israel has continued its airstrikes on Syrian territory. China finds this a cause for deep concern. Such acts constitute a grave violation of Syria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. These acts will further push the regional situation to the verge of spiraling out of control. The spillover effect of the current Gaza conflict continues as we speak. All parties must exercise restraint and refrain from actions that exacerbate tensions. Major powers outside the region should play a constructive role in promoting the deescalation of the regional situation. 

President, 

The current humanitarian situation in Syria is very dire. The international community should increase its commitment to providing assistance to Syria and ensure that the early recovery projects throughout Syria receive adequate and non-earmarked funding support. Cross-line humanitarian relief operations have been stalled for more than six months. Parties with actual control in northwest Syria must show sincerity and work to facilitate positive progress in cross-line relief operations. Unilateral sanctions and the plundering of resources have long impeded Syria’s efforts towards economic recovery, social development, and improvement of people's well-being. We urged the countries concerned to immediately cease their unlawful unilateral acts. Foreign forces must immediately end their illegal military presence in Syria. 

Thank you, President.