First of all, I would like to thank Mr. Schwarz-Schilling, High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina, for his briefing, and to congratulate him on his assumption of that important post. I would also like to express my appreciation to him for his efforts to promote the political process in Bosnia and Herzegovina. I also wish to thank Mr. Adnan Terzic, Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Bosnia and Herzegovina, for his statement.

We are pleased to note that, in the 10 years or so since the signing of the Dayton Accords, through the efforts of all parties in the country and with the assistance of the international community, Bosnia and Herzegovina has taken positive steps to build the capacity of its institutions, relaunch economic development, improve the judicial system, speed up the reform of the police and promote ethnic integration. Positive efforts have been made and clear results have been achieved. The country has also begun the process of joining the European Union (EU). Since taking up responsibility for security, the EU military mission (EUFOR) in Bosnia and Herzegovina has contributed to the country's political progress. China would like to express its acknowledgement of that achievement.

All parties should today doubly cherish the hardwon results that have been achieved in the context of the country's political process. We look forward to the parties concerned in Bosnia and Herzegovina further strengthening mutual trust and unity in order to achieve harmony among ethnic communities, including their common development. Along with the rest of the international community, China would like to assist Bosnia and Herzegovina in the areas of economic development and long-term stability. We shall make our own efforts in that regard.