Mr. President, 

I think Assistant Secretary-General Pobee for her briefing, and welcome the Permanent Representative of Libya to today’s meeting 

Since December 24 last year, the political transition in Libya has continued to face challenges, and the negative impact on the situation in the country is gradually emerging. The Libyan people are eager to advance the political transition and improve the economy and their likelihood. China welcomes the progress made by the Libyan House of Representatives and the High Council of State on the constitutional basis for the elections. We encourage all parties in Libya to stay committed to the general direction of political settlement, maintain the momentum of positive dialogue, and negotiate and resolve the key outstanding differences as soon as possible, so as to create favorable conditions for holding elections at an early date. 

Under the current circumstances, the maintenance of security and stability in Libya should be the common denominator for all parties. China is deeply concerned about the recent clashes in Tripoli and other places, and urges all parties to exercise maximum restraint, avoid any unilateral action that may lead to an escalation of tension, and maintain the hard-won peace and stability. The 5+5 joint military commission plays a key role in maintaining the ceasefire and implementing the ceasefire agreement. China supports strengthening cooperation between the commission and the UNSMIL ceasefire monitoring component to achieve the full implementation of the ceasefire monitoring mechanism as soon as possible. China looks forward to progress in the withdrawal of foreign forces and mercenaries from Libya on the premise of ensuring military balance. 

Oil is an important source of income for national reconstruction and livelihood improvement in Libya. China welcomes that the Libyan parties are working to remove political interference, negotiate and resolve differences in the management of the oil sector and revenue distribution, and ensure the normal order of oil production in Libya. Libya’s oil industry should continue to be managed by the country, and all oil revenues be used for the benefits of its people. Frozen assets are an important resource for national reconstruction. And the countries concerned should ensure the integrity of the frozen assets in strict accordance with Security Council resolutions. 

UNSMIL’s mandate will expire soon. Considering that the political process in Libya is at a critical stage, China supports the extension of UNSMIL’s mandate. The Security Council should continue to maintain the frequency of its deliberations and devote its attention to the issue of Libya. China supports the selection of an SRSG from an African country, and hopes that the selection and appointment process will be expedited. 

I thank you, Mr. President.