President, 

The Chinese delegation abstained in the voting on the draft resolution. I’d like to explain China’s voting position. 

First, the Red Sea is an important transport corridor of goods and energy products. Since the end of last year, the Houthis have repeatedly attacked commercial ships in the Red Sea and nearby waters, disrupting the normal order of international trade and negatively affecting regional stability. China has on multiple occasions called on the Houthis to respect the right of navigation of merchant vessels in the Red Sea waters under international law, heed the call of the international community, and comply with relevant Security Council resolution by ceasing attacks on civilian vessels and ensuring the safety of the Red Sea shipping lanes.

Second, in January this year, when the Council adopted Resolution 2722, China abstained in the voting. Our main concern was that the Resolution’s ambiguity on some key elements could have negative consequences and lead to further escalation of regional tensions. We observe that after the adoption of Security Council Resolution 2722, certain countries have taken military actions in Yemen, which have not only resulted in infrastructure damage and civilian casualties, but also heightened security risks in the Red Sea waters. This resolution is a technical rollover of Resolution 2722. Considering the continuity of China’s position and the development of the situation since the adoption of Resolution 2722, we had to abstain in the voting once again. We call on all parties concerned to strictly abide by the UN Charter and avoid misinterpretation and misuse of international law and Security Council resolutions or creating new tensions in the Red Sea waters. 

Third, the current tensions in the Red Sea are one of the spillover manifestations of the Gaza conflict. An immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza will help cool down the situation in Yemen and the Red Sea. We call on the relevant country to make efforts to this end sincerely and responsibly. China stands ready to continue to work with the Council and the international community to promote an immediate and lasting ceasefire in Gaza, search for a political solution to the Yemen issue, and work together for peace and stability in the Middle East. 

Thank you, President.