Mr. President,

China appreciates the timely convening of this High-Level

Pledging Event for Yemen by the UN and the governments of Sweden and Switzerland.

Currently, Yemen is facing multiple challenges such as violent conflict, economic crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, and food insecurity. It is deeply mired in a large scale humanitarian disaster. The international community must act immediately, increase assistance to Yemen, prevent further deterioration of the humanitarian crisis on the ground and make every effort to avoid the spread of famine.

The entities of the UN system must efficiently and effectively carry out humanitarian operations, and strengthen coordination with regional countries and organizations. All parties to the conflict must ensure safe and unhindered humanitarian access so that humanitarian supplies can be delivered to the people in need, and that vulnerable groups such as women and children can be effectively protected.

The political settlement represents the only solution to the Yemeni issue. Yemen's sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity must be fully upheld and respected. We call upon all parties to the conflict to achieve a ceasefire as soon as possible. The international community should continue to support the role of the United Nations as the main channel of mediation.

It is imperative for all relevant parties to put the interests of Yemen and its people first, effectively implement the Stockholm Agreement and the Riyadh Agreement, take forward the political settlement process, find a solution acceptable to all parties based on consensus reached at the international and regional levels and within Yemen.

China has been for a long time providing large amount of humanitarian assistance to Yemen through bilateral and multilateral channels. Between 2017 and 2020, China provided more than 11,700 tons of food aid to Yemen, covering most of its governorates. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, China has donated testing kits, PPEs and medical masks to help Yemen fight the pandemic. We will continue to provide food, medical supplies and other humanitarian assistance to Yemen.

China will join the international community and make all efforts to contribute to the alleviation of humanitarian sufferings and the restoration of stability and normal order in Yemen at an early date.

Thank you, Mr. President.