I welcome President Touadéra of the Central African Republic to today’s meeting, and thank Under-Secretary-General Hervé Ladsous and Ambassador Hilale for their briefings.

Thanks to the concerted efforts of the Government and the people of the Central African Republic and the relevant parties of the international community, the country has concluded its political transition and ushered in a new chapter in State-building. The Central African Republic is now pressing ahead with disarmament, demobilization, reintegration and repatriation (DDRR) efforts and security sector reform (SSR), and working hard to restore national stability and pursue reconciliation, with positive results. China welcomes that development and commends the Government of the Central African Republic for their efforts under the stewardship of President Touadéra. Meanwhile, we must be aware that the security situation in the country allows no complacency. There is a long way to go in rebuilding the State, and obstacles to achieving lasting peace and stability remain.

The issues surrounding the Central African Republic can be resolved only through self-led inclusive political dialogue aimed at national reconciliation and a permanent, appropriate and sustainable solution. The dialogue led by President Touadéra has provided a golden opportunity for the country to achieve stability and development. All parties in the country should act in the long-term interests of the country and its people, settle their differences through dialogue and consultation, and work together towards enduring peace, stability and development in the Central African Republic.

To assist the Central African Republic in realizing peace and development, the international community should uphold the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, and support Africans in addressing their problems in their own way. It should also help the African Union (AU) and other regional and subregional organizations play a leading role, in that regard. The United Nations, together with the AU and other regional and subregional organizations, should enhance their coordination with the Government of the Central African Republic, and must fully respect its needs and will. All mediation efforts must go hand in hand with efforts towards national reconciliation. The United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) has played an important role in maintaining stability in the country. China supports MINUSCA’s continuing mandate.

During his visit to five African countries earlier this year, Mr. Wang Yi, the Chinese Minister for Foreign Affairs, conveyed China’s goodwill and commitment to pursuing an African policy of sincerity, practical results, affinity and good faith; upholding the values of friendship, justice and shared interests; and actively supporting the cause of peace and development in Africa. Along with the international community, China is ready to renew its contribution to the pursuit of lasting peace, stability and development in the Central African Republic.

(Photo by UN Photo/Rick Bajornas)