Mr President,

I thank SRSG Mr. Zahir Tanin for his briefing. I welcome Mr. Dačić, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia, for his attendance and statement. I also listened carefully to the statement of Mr. Konjufca.

Security Council Resolution 1244 is an important legal basis for the settlement of the Kosovo issue. China has always maintained that the best way to resolve the Kosovo issue is for the parties concerned to reach a mutually acceptable solution through dialogue and consultation, in accordance with relevant Council resolutions. We welcome the positive developments in this regard recently.

China respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Serbia. We understand its legitimate concerns with regard to the Kosovo issue, and commend its efforts to find a political solution to it. We hope that Kosovo will demonstrate necessary political will, effectively lift its unilateral tariff measures, and work towards the resuming of dialogue between the two parties.

The reconciliation and harmonious coexistence among all ethnicities in Kosovo is in the fundamental interests of peoples from all communities. At this critical period of time when the world is facing the extraordinary challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic, cooperation and solidarity is even more imperative. China hopes that all parties concerned would put the interests of people first, refrain from any rhetoric or actions that could complicate or escalate the situation, and create conditions for the proper settlement of the Kosovo issue.

Mr. President,

Against such backdrop, it is important for the Security Council to remain seized of the Kosovo issue. China commends SRSG Tanin and UNMIK for their active efforts in bringing about a political solution to the Kosovo issue. We also appreciate the efforts of UNMIK to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. China firmly supports the Mission in the diligent implementation of its mandate and playing an important role. We call on relevant parties to fully ensure the safety and security of United Nations personnel, and create conducive conditions for their implementation of mandate within agreed parameters.

I thank you, Mr. President.