(April 27, 2011)

I thank Under-Secretary-General Lynn Pascoe for his briefing.

China is closely following the unfolding situation in Syria. Syria is an important country in the Middle East. We hope that the various parties there will resolve their differences through political dialogue and address the current crisis in an appropriate manner, so as to maintain stability and order in the country.

We welcome the fact that the Government of Syria recently lifted the state of emergency and announced political reforms and the launch of national dialogue. It has also decided to investigate all recent incidents. We hope that these measures will help to promote the achievement of the aforementioned objectives.

The turbulence in some countries in the Middle East and North Africa is a matter of deep concern. It has not only had a negative impact on peace and stability in these countries, but has also significantly undermined stability of the region. How to address these issues is a common challenge that we all face. It is also a common task, because if these issues are not addressed appropriately, they will threaten peace and stability in other regions and have a significant negative impact on the recovery of the world economy. Therefore, with regard to the events that have taken place in these countries, we hope that the international community will offer constructive help in line with the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter.