China wishes to thank the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for South Sudan, Mr. Shearer, for his briefing.

Thanks to the concerted efforts of all South Sudanese parties and the international community, the political reconciliation process in South Sudan has made some progress recently. President Kiir announced the formal launching of national dialogue and implemented a unilateral ceasefire, actions that China welcomes. The overall situation in South Sudan remains as complex as it is austere, and it still faces serious challenges in the areas of political security, economic development and the need to address famine. Meeting those challenges will require the consistent efforts of all South Sudanese parties and the international community.

First, it is central to actively promote a political solution in South Sudan. Attaining peace and stability is the common aspiration shared by all South Sudanese parties. A political settlement is the only possible solution to the question of South Sudan, and the key is to realize reconciliation in its true sense. We hope that all South Sudanese parties will take advantage of the opportunity offered by the national dialogue, abandon the mindset of a military solution, revert to the political settlement track, promote inclusive national dialogue, attract the extensive and active participation of all parties, resolve differences, enhance mutual trust and achieve peace, stability and development in South Sudan.

Secondly, it is essential to facilitate the mediation role of regional and subregional organizations. China appreciates the active mediation efforts by Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the African Union. The international community should vigorously support Mr. Mogae, Chair of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Commission, and Mr. Konaré, High Representative of the African Union. The international community should strengthen its leadership, and coordinate efforts to send a consistent message to the world, create synergies and resolve the question of South Sudan.

Thirdly, we must focus on the fundamental questions that relate to the conflict. Development is an important factor for ensuring peace, and underdevelopment is the underlying cause of the situation in South Sudan. The international community should actively help South Sudan through increasing development and input relating to agriculture, infrastructure and natural resources; providing support for South Sudan in developing its economy; and improving livelihoods so that the South Sudanese people can benefit from the peace dividend.

Fourthly, it is essential to strengthen the capacity-building of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). We hope that the Secretariat and UNMISS will strengthen their communication with the South Sudanese Government, improve the capability of UNMISS to perform its duties and the effectiveness of its operations, and strengthen its ability to deal with complex situations, while taking effective measures to strengthen the security and safety of peacekeeping personnel. The Government of South Sudan should continue to actively implement the joint communiqué with the Security Council and its relevant resolutions, support UNMISS in carrying out its duties and properly address and resolve problems related to cooperation.

The Chinese Government has always supported the peace process in South Sudan and provided assistance to its ability to South Sudan for its country-building efforts. To date, we have sent more than 1,000 peacekeepers to UNMISS. Not long ago, in response to the United Nations appeal, the Chinese Government provided assistance in the amount of $5 million through the World Food Programme and also provided, through bilateral channels, 8,750 tons of food to assist South Sudan respond to famine. China remains willing to continue to play a constructive role in helping South Sudan achieve lasting peace, stability and sustainable development.

(UN Photo/Manuel Elias)