Mr. Chairman,

China always advocates constructive dialogue and cooperation as a way for countries to address their differences in the field of human rights. The international community should acknowledge the progress and achievement made by Eritrea in the promotion and protection of human rights. Human rights is an important part of a country's economic and social development and should be advanced on the basis of national circumstances and the needs of the people. China calls on the international community to view the human rights situation in Eritrea in a comprehensive, fair and objective manner and help Eritrea build capacity in the filed of human rights according to its wish and needs.

With their interests interlinked, countries of the Horn of Africa share weal and woe. China sincerely hopes that they bear in mind the overriding need for peace and stability of the Horn of Africa and the fundamental interests of their peoples, live in harmony, increase mutual trust, solve their differences through dialogue and consultations, and work together for development. This is in the common interest of all the countries in the region.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.