I would like to thank Under-Secretary-General Feltman for his briefing. China has been closely following developments in the situation on the ground in Ukraine, which remains highly complex and sensitive as we speak. The situation in Ukraine today is the result of a complex interlinkage among historic factors and circumstances on the ground.

China regrets the recent clashes that took place in the streets of Kyiv. China also condemns acts of extremism and violence. Efforts to address Ukrainian affairs should take the lawful rights and interests of all ethnic communities in Ukraine into consideration with a view to restoring the normal social order as soon as possible. On several public occasions, China has clearly stated its principled position on the question of Ukraine. It continues to address the issue objectively and impartially. It is China’s long-standing position not to interfere in the internal affairs of other States and to respect their sovereignty and territorial integrity.

My country is of the view that all parties must now remain calm, exercise restraint, prevent a further escalation of the situation, and adhere to the approach of resolving the crisis through political and diplomatic channels. It is our hope that all parties concerned will promote communication and coordination, put the interests of all ethnic communities in Ukraine above everything else, keep their eyes on the big picture of maintaining regional peace and stability, and settling their differences by appropriate means.

China supports the constructive efforts and good offices of the international community in de-escalating the situation in Ukraine. We are open to all proposals and plans that would help to ease tensions in the country. We remain committed to playing a constructive role in achieving a political settlement of the question of Ukraine.