Thank you, Madam President,

I thank Deputy Secretary-General Amina and Ms. Dini for their briefings, and I would like to express my condolences to the victims of the two bombings in Somalia on September 25.

Women represent an important force in achieving lasting peace and building an inclusive society. In recent years, the Somali Government has made great efforts to protect women's rights and interests, combat gender-based violence and enhanced women's voice in political, economic, and social life. China welcomes the government's commitment to guarantee women's seats in elections, and the concrete measures taken to encourage women's political participation, including reducing fees for women candidates, appointing goodwill ambassadors and setting up a advocacy committee. After a long period of war in Somalia, national reconstruction cannot be accomplished overnight. The international community needs to be patient and encourage in a step-by-step manner greater political inclusivity in Somalia.

Political stability and national unity in Somalia will help create favorable conditions for women's equal, full and meaningful participation in political life. We noted that differences among Somali leaders remain unresolved. We are concerned about its possible impact on the political and security situation on the ground. On September 18, the Security Council issued a press statement calling on Somali leaders to exercise restraint for the interests of the country and people, overcome differences through dialogue and consultation, and maintain political security and stability. We believe that Somali leaders will heed the voices and wishes of the people and the international community and strengthen unity. China encourages the AU, IGAD and the SRSG for Somalia to continue their mediation efforts to bring the political situation in Somalia back on track.

The most urgent task for Somalia right now is to hold the election. Although progress has been made in implementing September 17 and May 27 agreements, the Somali elections still face many complex challenges. Some core pending issues may affect its progress. China encourages Somalia to continue to advance the election process in accordance with the timeframe agreed upon by all parties and resolve the outstanding issues through political dialogue. The international community should continue to provide the necessary financial and technical support for the elections in accordance with the principle of a Somali-led and Somali-owned process.

Faced with multiple challenges, the current situation in Somalia is sensitive and complex. The Security Council should calibrate the periodicity and efforts invested in the deliberations and be seized of priorities of the situation, so that Somalia can focus on advancing important issues concerning its future and destiny.

Thank you, Madam President.