Mr. President,

The Security Council has just unanimously adopted resolution 2694, mandating the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia (UNVMC) to participate in the verification of the implementation of the ceasefire agreement between the Government of Colombia and the National Liberation Army (ELN). The Security Council’s adoption of this resolution one day before the ceasefire agreement comes fully into effect reflects its firm support for the peace process in Colombia and its high appreciation of the Colombian Government’s efforts to achieve “Total Peace” through dialogue and negotiation.

China hopes that the UNVMC will earnestly implement its mandate under this resolution, work closely with the Colombian Government, and play a more positive and constructive role in advancing the peace process in Colombia. We also hope that the UNVMC will, in a science-based and reasonable approach, strengthen its financial and human resources management so as to effectively enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of its work.

Mr. President,

The peace process in Colombia has set a good example of ending conflict and re-establishing peace through dialogue. I believe that, with the support of the United Nations, the Government and people of Colombia will continue to make further progress in the full implementation of the Final Peace Agreement and in actively advancing “Total Peace”. China is ready to work with the international community to continue to support the Colombian-led, Colombian-owned peace process and to help the Colombian people move forward towards the goal of comprehensive peace, stability and development.

I thank you, Mr. President.