Mr. President,

I would like to thank the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Guatemala for presiding over today's meeting. I would also like to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Fernández Amunátegui, for his briefing.

Haiti has made some progress in the areas of stability and development recently. The swearing-in of a new Government, the publication of constitutional amendments and the establishment of the Superior Council of the Judiciary are positive achievements by the Haitian Government in its efforts to strengthen its democratic and rule-of-law institutions, and China welcomes them. At the same time, we also note that Haiti faces colossal challenges in its political, economic and humanitarian situations. It has a long way to go in its process of rebuilding and reestablishing peace, and it needs the continuing support and advice of the international community. I would like to emphasize three points.

First, ensuring political stability is an important prerequisite for maintaining Haiti's security and development. China welcomes the compromise reached through political consultation by the relevant parties, and hopes that the establishment of the new Government in Haiti will help facilitate the democratic process and political reconciliation there. We hope that all the relevant parties will take the opportunity to unite in order to enhance mutual trust and consolidate hard-won achievements.

Secondly, the chief issue that must be urgently addressed is the speeding-up of the economic recovery and reconstruction. Haiti's slow progress in those areas has meant that many refugees from the earthquake are still surviving on assistance. The country faces major difficulties in the areas of reconstruction, attracting investment, creating jobs and promoting sustainable development. The international community must devote serious attention to those problems. The Haitian Government should redouble its efforts to deal with unemployment and poverty, strengthen institution-building and improve its capacity to govern. We also hope that the international community will honour its pledges to Haiti, increase the effectiveness of its aid and provide constructive support for Haiti's rebuilding and development.

Thirdly, the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH) plays an indispensable role there. China commends the Special Representative, Mr. Fernández Amunátegui, and MINUSTAH as a whole for its efforts and contribution to maintaining peace and stability in Haiti. We welcome the Secretary- General's proposal for MINUSTAH's consolidation plan and the extension of its mandate for one year. We hope that MINUSTAH will continue to implement the Council's mandate, help Haiti maintain peace and stability, facilitate its political process and strengthen capacity-building for its rule-of-law and Government institutions.

Thank you, Mr. President.