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Remarks by Ambassador Geng Shuang at Security Council Open Debate on Bosnia and Herzegovina

2021-06-29 17:41

Thank you Mr. President,

I thank the representative of the Secretariat for the briefing.

China takes note of Mr. Inzko's letter to the Secretary-General on the selection of the next High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Dayton Peace Agreement has outlined the role of the Security Council in the appointment of high representatives. In practice, the Security Council endorses the appointment either through a resolution or in the form of a letter from the President, which has become an established practice. This practice should continue to be respected in the appointment of the next high representative.

The high representative assumes the important responsibilities of supervising the implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement. His work affects the fundamental interests of Bosnia and Herzegovina and its people, and has an important impact on the situation in the country. On the issue of the appointment of high representative, the international community must take into full account the views of all BiH parties. China takes note of the differences regarding the procedures for the appointment of the next high representative. We encourage all parties concerned to engage in full consultation and find a reasonable and feasible solution, bearing in mind the need to facilitate the discharge of the high representative's mandate, maintain the authority of the Security Council, and contribute to the maintenance of peace and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the wider Western Balkans region.

In March this year, the parliament of the Republika Srpska adopted a resolution calling for the immediate closure of the office of the high representative. This resolution should be taken seriously. Since the signing of the Dayton Peace Agreement 25 years ago, the situation in Bosnia and Herzegovina has undergone major changes. The international community should reassess the role and mandate of the high representative in order to ensure that this office adapts to the current reality as well as the needs of the people of Bosnia and Herzegovina. At the same time, the rights of all parties in Bosnia and Herzegovina should be protected.

Mr. President,

China has always respected the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and respected the choice of the people of BiH for the future of the country. China encourages all parties in Bosnia and Herzegovina to continuously build up political mutual trust, promote national harmony and advance the development of the country. China stands ready to work with other countries to provide continued support and assistance in this regard.

Since its inception, the peace and reconciliation process in Bosnia and Herzegovina has benefited from the attention and assistance of the international community, especially the Secured Council, and it would not have been possible without the sustained support of other countries. We hope that BiH will abide by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, engage in external relations in a friendly spirit and good faith, truly respect the sovereignty of other countries, and refrain from interfering in other countries' internal affairs.

Thank you, Mr President.

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