Mr. Chairman,

In December 2003, the Libyan Government declared voluntary renouncement of its weapons of mass destruction (WMD) programmes, including nuclear weapon programme, and the acceptance of inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). China welcomes and appreciates the move, which is conducive to international non-proliferation efforts and beneficial for eliminating WMDs and promoting peace and stability in the region.

We note that Libya's renouncement of WMDs is achieved through diplomatic negotiations. This proves once again that the international community can peacefully settle proliferation concerns through dialogue. China appreciates efforts made by the relevant countries and the IAEA on this issue and hopes that the Libyan Government will continue cooperating with the IAEA.

China opposes proliferation of WMDs and their means of delivery, supports international non-proliferation efforts, endorses the objective of freeing the Middle East from WMDs and stands ready to work together with the international community in this regard.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.