The Council just adopted resolution 2285 (2016), on extending the mandate of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), in which it decides to do so for one year and emphasizes the urgent need for the Mission to return to full functionality expeditiously. It also reflects the will and resolve of the Security Council to push for a political solution to the question of Western Sahara and maintain MINURSO’s mandate.

China supports the renewal of MINURSO to allow it to resume its full capacity to implement the Council’s resolution at the earliest. It is our hope that the Mission will continue to play an important role in the implementation of the Council’s resolutions and in stabilizing the situation in Western Sahara.

China’s position on the question of Western Sahara has been consistent. We will continue to uphold a fair and objective position on the matter and support the United Nations in its efforts to push for a political solution to the question. We encourage both parties, based on the relevant Council resolutions, to seek a fair, long-lasting solution which is acceptable to both sides through negotiations.