President,

I thank Deputy Special Envoy Najat Rochdi and Assistant Secretary-General Joyce Msuya for their briefings. I have listened carefully to the statement by civil society representative Ms. Amneh Khoulani. I welcome the presence of the representatives of Syria, Iran, Yemen, and Türkiye at today’s meeting.

Syria is at a critical juncture in achieving political stability and economic recovery. Despite the recent active efforts by the Syrian parties, including those to promote internal reconciliation, the domestic situation remains complex and fragile. We hope that the Syrian interim authorities will take effective measures to deliver on their commitments and earnestly respond to and address the concerns of the international community, and restore peace and stability with the help of the international community, so that the Syrian people can live in stability and dignity at an early rate. 

A broad and inclusive political transition should be promoted. The holding of the national dialogue conference is a major step towards political transition. The Syrian interim authorities should respond actively to the voices of all sectors by continuing to promote extensive dialogue and consultation, strengthen internal unity, and achieve genuine inclusiveness. In this regard, the principles set out in Security Council Resolution 2254 can provide important guidance and should continue to be upheld. The investigation into the violent incidents on the western coast is to be concluded in July. We expect the investigation to move forward in a transparent and responsible manner, so as to reach conclusions that can withstand scrutiny. China commends the efforts of Special Envoy Geir Pedersen to communicate with the Syrian parties and supports the continued important role by the United Nations in the Syrian political transition process. 

Efforts should be made to resolutely combat all terrorist forces in Syria. Recently, multiple violent terrorist incidents have occurred in Syria, heightening the risk of the expansion and resurgence of terrorist organizations and extremist forces by taking advantage of the situation, which is a cause for concern. It is reported that some FTFs in Syria have recently been integrated into the Syrian national army. China is gravely concerned about such developments. The Syrian interim authorities should earnestly fulfill their counter-terrorism obligations and immediately take all necessary measures to combat all terrorist organizations listed by the Security Council, including the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement, also known as the Turkistan Islamic Party. The counter-terrorism-related resolutions of the Security Council must be implemented, and the seriousness of relevant sanctions regime upheld. 

Utmost efforts should be made to effectively alleviate the humanitarian situation. For some time now, despite multiple challenges, including funding shortfall, the UN humanitarian agencies have been working hard to conduct humanitarian operations in various parts of Syria. The international community, especially traditional donors, should step up their assistance and make greater efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crisis. We take note of the agreement reached by the Syrian interim authorities with relevant parties on the evacuation from Al Hol camp, and support the participation of UN agencies in the relevant work. The evacuation of refugees should be conducted on a voluntary basis and in a safe and orderly manner. 

President, 

China is deeply concerned about Israel’s attacks on Iran, which caused the spike of military conflicts. We condemn Israel’s violation of Iran’s sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity. If the conflict between Israel and Iran continues to escalate or even spill over, Syria and other countries in the Middle East will inevitably bear the brunt. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has spoken with his Iranian and Israeli counterparts, calling on both sides to resolve differences through dialogue. China stands ready to maintain communication with relevant parties and to play a constructive role in promoting an early deescalation of the situation. 

Thank you, President.