President, 

I thank Special Representative Nicholas Haysom for his briefing. I have also heard the statement by the representative of the civil society. I welcome the presence of the representatives of South Sudan and Kenya at today’s meeting. In connection with the Secretary-General’s report, I wish to make the following points. 

First, we must continue to support South Sudan in advancing the political process. China has taken note of the decision of the signatories to the Revitalized Peace Agreement to extend the transition period by two more years, and to reschedule the general elections to December 2026. It should be noted that, as the youngest member of the United Nations, South Sudan, in face of the myriad internal and external challenges, has actively implemented the Revitalized Peace Agreement, enacted election-related laws, established specialized national institutions, and accelerated the deployment of unified forces, thus making great efforts to promote the political transition, which deserves full recognition. China encourages the signatories to the Revitalized Peace Agreement to accelerate the implementation of various tasks in the spirit of solidarity and cooperation and to steadily push forward the political process, so as to consolidate the hard-won gains of peaceful development. We support the trilateral mechanism of the AU, IGAD, and the UN in continuing to work closely with the Government of South Sudan and provide more assistance to the political process. 

It should be emphasized that the general elections are the internal affairs of South Sudan. The international community should fully respect South Sudan’s sovereignty and ownership, maintain necessary patience, endeavor to provide constructive support, and avoid imposing external solutions, especially unwarranted interference. 

Second, we must continue to support South Sudan in maintaining peace and stability. At present, the security situation in South Sudan still faces many challenges with inter-communal violence occurring from time to time as a result of the competition for agricultural and pastural resources. The conflict in Sudan has led to an influx of refugees, which has exacerbated inter-communal tensions. We support the government of South Sudan in promoting dialogue and consultation among the relevant tribal communities regarding disputes over agricultural and pastural resources, with a view to resolving conflicts and achieving peaceful coexistence. China supports UNMISS in focusing on its primary responsibility for peacekeeping and helping the government of South Sudan strengthen its security capacity and enhance its ability to independently protect civilians. The Council should listen to strong voices of South Sudan and other African countries and adjust or lift inappropriate sanctions in a timely manner. 

Third, we must continue to support South Sudan in developing the economy and improving people’s livelihoods. The industrial structure of South Sudan is relatively homogeneous, and its ability to withstand risks is weak. As a result of the conflict in Sudan, South Sudan’s oil exports have declined, government revenues have plummeted, and food insecurity has become a very prominent problem. In addition, the economy of South Sudan has suffered from raging floods and devastating epidemics. We appreciate the close cooperation between UNMISS and the UN country team in providing relief to the affected population and carrying out quick impact livelihood projects to alleviate the humanitarian situation. The international community should not only expedite the filling of the funding gaps for humanitarian response, but also provide more support in such areas as industry, agriculture, healthcare, education, and training, to help diversify the economy of South Sudan and realize independent and sustainable development at an early date. 

President,

China attaches great importance to the difficulties faced by South Sudan and has actively provided assistance within its capacity. In recent years, China has implemented a number of infrastructure projects in South Sudan, such as hospitals and bridges, and has provided several batches of humanitarian supplies. As a major troop-contributing country to UNMISS, China will continue to take practical actions to support the effective performance of UNMISS under the leadership of SRSG Haysom, so as to contribute to the peace, stability, prosperity, and development of South Sudan.

Thank you, President.