Mr. President,

I thank Special Representative Salamé, Commissioner Chergu and Ambassador Schultz for their briefings.

Since early April, military conflicts that broke out around Tripoli have resulted in heavy casualties, including those of civilians. The increasing number of refugees, immigrants and displaced persons and the trend of mounting terrorist activities are undermining Libya’s stability and development in the political, security, economic and social fields, and are spilling over to such areas as the Sahel and the Mediterranean coast. China is seriously concerned over the developments in Libya. The international community should heighten its attention to Libya and work together for the solution of the Libya crisis. In this connection, I would like to make four points as follows:

First, we must keep seeking a political solution. China always believes that the Libyan issue should be settled through political means. We hope that the parties to the conflict in Libya will focus on the interests of the country and its people, respond to the call of the international community, achieve a ceasefire as soon as possible, ease the tensions and return to the path of settlement through peaceful dialogue and consultation, protect the safety of civilians and improve the humanitarian situation.

Second, a synergy must be formed. The international community should respect Libya’s sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity. Countries with influence should actively play their roles and exert their influence by pushing the Libyan parties to resolve their differences and build mutual confidence, and by providing constructive assistance to the parties to achieve a ceasefire and resume political dialogue.

Third, we must enhance coordination. China supports the active promotion of the political settlement process in Libya under UN leadership. It supports the good offices of Secretary-General Guterres and Special Representative Salamé. It supports the active role of regional organizations such as the African Union and hopes that the mechanisms will fully leverage their advantages and enhance coordination and cooperation.

Fourth, the issue of sanctions should be properly handled. We always believe that sanctions are not an end but rather a means. They should always serve a political solution to the problem at hand. While continuing the enforcement of sanctions on Libya, it is imperative to take care to avoid the negative impact of sanctions on the civilian population and on third countries. The overall interests of the Libyan nation and the normal life and humanitarian needs of its people should not be undermined.

China is willing to work with the international community in an active, concerted effort for the attainment of lasting peace and stability in Libya.

I thank you, Mr. President.