Mr. Chairman,

The Chinese delegation wishes to thank the Chairman of the Special Committee for his briefing on the Committee’s 2012 annual session, and appreciate his efforts in advancing the work of the Special Committee.

The Chinese delegation attaches great importance to the role of the Special Committee, supports the Committee in carrying out its work in accordance with the mandate from the GA, and encourages member states to utilize the mechanism of the Special Committee for in-depth discussions on the UN Charter and the strengthening of the role of the UN.

At its 2012 annual session, the Special Committee held deliberations on such items as the “Impact and Implementation of Sanctions” and “Assistance to Third States Affected by the Application of Sanctions”. It is the belief of this delegation that the Security Council should continue to exert caution applying sanction measures and do its utmost to avoid any negative impact that sanctions might have on third states and civilians. In cases when sanctions are deemed necessary, it is imperative to ensure that they would be implemented in compliance with the UN Charter and relevant norms of international law. The Council should also evaluate, in a careful and prudent manner, the effects of such measures. In view of the growing trend of economic globalization and economic interdependence among all countries, the negative impact of sanctions on third states cannot be overlooked. China believes these two items related to sanctions still merit consideration in today’s world. China therefore endorses the idea that at its next session, the Special Committee continues to give priority to the consideration of the above items.

Mr. Chairman,

The Chinese delegation is open to new proposals which in view of this delegation should be both realistic and feasible. My delegation wishes to reiterates that the Special Committee should carry out its work based on the mandate from the GA. Therefore, any new proposal needs to be in line with the function of the Special Committee as stipulated in the relevant GA resolutions.

Mr. Chairman,

On improving the working methods and efficiency of the Special Committee, the Chinese delegation while fully recognizing the achievements of the Special Committee so far, believes that it is necessary to explore new approaches and new methods. The Chinese delegation hopes that with a pragmatic attitude and in the spirit of consensus, member states will be able to reach agreement on widely acceptable efficiency measures.

Mr. Chairman,

The Chinese delegation appreciates the work of the Secretariat in compiling the Repertory of the Practice of United Nations Organs and in updating the Repertoire of the Practice of the Security Council, and hopes that the Secretariat would continue such work. In 2012, China has made some donations to relevant Fund, and hopes that more countries could join the ranks with a view to assisting the Secretariat in this regard.

Mr. Chairman,

In conclusion, the Chinese delegation will, as always, make its due contribution to enabling the Special Committee to further play its positive role in safeguarding the authority of the UN Charter and maintaining international peace and security.