Mr. Chairman,

In recent years, there have been frequent occurrences of natural disasters and emergencies at the global level, bringing enormous casualties and economic losses to the victim countries. Based on the recommendations of the Secretary-General, the General Assembly adopted a resolution last year to upgrade the Central Emergency Revolving Fund to the Central Emergency Response Fund with a view to expanding the scale of financing. This will allow the UN system to assist the victim countries more effectively in fighting against natural disasters and conducting rebuilding and reconstruction in a timely manner. The Chinese Government has taken an active part and supports the reform in the field of humanitarian assistance of the UN system.

Today, the Secretary-General officially launches the CERF. This is of important significance for the future work in the field of humanitarian assistance of the UN system. On behalf of the Chinese Government, I wish to declare hereby a donation of one million US dollars to the CERF.

Mr. Chairman,

China is a developing country prone to natural disasters. We know very well what sufferings disasters can inflict on the local people. The Chinese Government will, as always, continue to support the UN system for disaster relief and reduction and make its own contribution within its capabilities.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.