Madam President,

I would like to thank USG Madam Rosemary DiCarlo and USG Mr Jean-Pierre Lacroix for their briefings.

Recently, the ceasefire between Israel and Syria has, by and large, held. However, there continue to be violations of the Disengagement of Forces Agreement in UNDOF’s area of operations. The UN Secretary-General has articulated his “deep concern” over the escalation of tensions. The parties concerned should implement relevant Security Council resolutions and the Disengagement of Forces Agreement in real earnest, exercise restraint and cease and desist from any action that may exacerbate the tensions along the ceasefire line. It is particularly important to safeguard the safety and security of UNDOF personnel and facilities, so they can go about implementing their mandate with assured freedom of movement, safety and security.

China commends the constructive role of UNDOF in maintaining the ceasefire between Syria and Israel and in maintaining regional security and stability. We support UNDOF’s full return to its mission area when conditions so permit, to continue effective implementation of its mandate. We call upon all parties concerned to continue providing support and cooperating to this end.

Madam President,

The Golan Heights is recognised by the international community as an occupied territory. The UN Security Council has adopted a raft of resolutions that urge Israel to withdraw from the Golan Heights. China is opposed to any unilateral action that attempts to alter this fact. China does not wish to see further escalation of tensions in the region.

Thank you, Madam President.