Mr. President, 

I would like to thank Under-Secretary-General Martin Griffiths and High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi for their briefings. 

What is now unfolding in Ukraine is indeed heart-wrenching. We call upon all parties concerned to exercise restraint, de-escalate the situation, and avoid civilian casualties. The safety of life and property of all civilians, including foreign nationals, and their humanitarian needs should be effectively guaranteed. It is of utmost importance to prevent a large scale humanitarian crisis. We welcome the remarks by the Secretary-General that the United Nations will play an active role in coordinating the humanitarian assistance. In our view, the UN and the international community should provide humanitarian assistance in accordance with the principles of humanity, neutrality and impartiality as set forth in GA Resolution 46/182, in order to avoid politicization. 

Mr. President, 

What remains most important for the time being is to return to the track of diplomatic negotiations and political settlement as soon as possible, and to promote de-escalation of the situation. China supports the holding of direct dialogues and negotiations between Russia and Ukraine, which is the ultimate way to solve this issue. The international community should foster favorable external conditions for dialogues and political settlement, and avoid exacerbating the tensions. Any action by this Council should help play a constructive role, rather than leading to further escalation. 

Thank you, Mr. President.