Mr. President,

I have carefully listened to the briefing given by USG DiCarlo. 

The current situation on the peninsula is in an upward spiral of rising tension and intensifying confrontation. China is concerned about this. We hope that relevant parties can uphold the direction of political settlement and try to meet each other halfway, so as to prevent the situation from repeated escalation or even getting out of control.

Rising tensions on the Korean peninsula serve no party's interests and it is not something China wants to see. The world today is full of uncertainties and the peninsula cannot afford the danger of any further deterioration of the situation. Relevant parties must focus on the overall peace and stability of the peninsula and Northeast Asia at large, take practical measures, play a positive role, and go all out for a political settlement of the issue.

First, we should make every effort to cool down the situation, maintain stability, and prevent turbulence. Under the current circumstances, all parties should remain calm, exercise restraint, be cautious in their words and deeds, and refrain from any action that may exacerbate tension or lead to miscalculation, so as to prevent the situation from falling into a vicious cycle.

Second, we should return to the correct path and restart the dialogue. All parties should face up to the crux of this long standing stalemate, work hard to resolve their respective concerns in a balanced manner, and stay committed to the correct direction of dialogue and consultation. The U.S. should take the initiative and show sincerity by putting forward realistic and feasible proposals, and respond positively to the legitimate concerns of the DPRK, so as to turn the dialogue from formality into reality as soon as possible. All parties must focus on solving the problem, persist in advancing the denuclearization process, and at the same time take practical actions in halting military exercises and easing sanctions against the DPRK.

Third, we should create favorable conditions and push for peace and talks. The Security Council should play a constructive role on this issue, and should not always condemn or exert pressure on the DPRK. Deliberations of the Security Council should help ease the tension and promote the de-escalation of the situation at an early date, so as to make room for diplomatic efforts, rather than creating obstacles. The DPRK related draft resolution jointly sponsored by China and Russia at the Security Council will help mitigate the humanitarian situation in the DPRK, create an atmosphere for dialogue, and promote the realization of political settlement. We hope that all parties can positively consider it. 

As a close neighbor of the peninsula, China is always committed to maintaining peace and stability, realizing denuclearization, promoting the establishment of a peace mechanism, and resolving issues through dialogue and consultation. We once again call on all relevant parties to face squarely the crux of the long standing stalemate, focus on the greater picture of peace and stability of the peninsula, follow the dual track approach and the principle of phased and synchronized steps, resolve their respective concerns in a balanced manner through meaningful dialogue, and promote the political settlement of the peninsula issue. China will continue its constructive role in this regard. 

I thank you, Mr. President.