Madam Chair,

China takes note of the report by Mr Haraszti.

China opposes forcing through the establishment of country-specific mandates without the consent of the countries concerned. We believe that, by focusing solely on civil and political rights in Belarus while ignoring the country’s progress in economic, social, cultural rights and the right to development, this report is not in line with the fundamental principles of objectivity, impartiality and non-selectivity. Part of the report undermines the legislative and judicial sovereignty of Belarus and contravenes the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.

China appreciates Belarus’ active participation in the UPR exercise and its interaction with UN human rights bodies and Member States at large on its human rights situation, which reflects the country’s proactive approach in taking a constructive part in international human rights cooperation and its firm resolve to promote and protect the human rights of its citizens. We believe that Belarus will continue to improve its human rights legislation and institutions, adopt comprehensive measures to strengthen social relief and guarantee people’s livelihood so as to achieve more progress in its promotion and protection of human rights. We call upon the international community to look at the progress in the area of human rights achieved by Belarus in an impartial and objective manner and engage in constructive dialogue and friendly consultations to settle differences.

Thank you, Madam Chair.