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Statement by Counsellor Shaojun Yao at the Third Committee's Dialogue with the High Commissioner on Human Rights

2015-10-21 00:09
 

Madam Chair, Mr. High Commissioner,

The Chinese delegation thanks the High Commissioner for his presentation of the recent work of OHCHR.

In promoting the cause of human rights at the international level, the OHCHR should always adhere to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, respect the sovereignty of member states and refrain from interfering in their internal affairs. It must not regard itself as a prosecutor or judge when it comes to the human rights situation of specific countries, but should, on the basis of prior consultation with the countries concerned, address the relevant questions in a prudent, objective and appropriate manner through dialogue and cooperation.

A few days ago, the UN Development Summit adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. China hopes that the OHCHR will seize this opportunity to guarantee adequate financial and human resources for the implementation of the Covenant on Social, Economic and Cultural Rights and the realization of the right to development, and incorporate in its program of work for the coming two years specific items related to the right to development.

We hope that the OHCHR will focus on facilitating the creation in the Human Rights Council of a working environment characterized by equality and mutual trust, openness and transparency, and dialogue and cooperation, so as to promote the mutual understanding and respect among member states and maintain the inter-governmental nature of the Human Rights Council and the principle of ownership by member states. The two types of human rights should be advanced in a comprehensive and balanced manner, and the relevant UN organs and mechanisms should have a clear division of labor and enhanced cooperation in their effort to promote and protect human rights in order to avoid overlapping and waste of resources.

On specific ideas to restructure the headquarters office and the building of local offices, and on the implementation of the program of work of the OHCHR in accordance with the biennial strategic framework of the Secretary General, the OHCHR should maintain close communication with member states, and heed and respect their views.

Upon the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration on the Right to Development and with the recent adoption by the UN Development Summit of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, I would like to ask the High Commissioner if his office has any plans to further advance the right to development.

Thank you, Madam Chair and Mr. High Commissioner.

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