I would like to thank you, Mr. President, for convening today’s open briefing. I also thank Mr. Mladenov, Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, for his briefing.

The question of Palestine is at the heart of the issue in the Middle East and is fundamental to achieving peace in the region. China is paying close attention to the recent developments regarding the status of Jerusalem. A series of Security Council resolutions, including resolution 2334 (2016), include provisions regarding the status of Jerusalem. Any unilateral action that changes the current status of Jerusalem will alter the long-standing foundation for the settlement of the question of Palestine. Also, it would trigger new conflicts and confrontations in the region. We urge the parties concerned to bear in mind the overall interest of peace and tranquility, as well as the peace process in the Middle East, while avoiding any action that might exacerbate tensions or complicate the situation.

China has always firmly supported and promoted the peace process in the Middle East. We support the just cause of the Palestinian people for restoring their legitimate national rights. We support the establishment of a fully sovereign and independent State of Palestine, based on its 1967 borders and with East Jerusalem as its capital. That is the position of China, and it will not change.

The two-State solution is the right way out for the political settlement of the question of Palestine. As a permanent member of the Security Council and a responsible country, China will continue to play a constructive role with respect to the political settlement of the question of Palestine.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has put forward the “four-point proposal” for the promotion of the settlement of the question of Palestine, namely, advancing the process of political settlement based on the two-State solution, upholding the concept of common, integrated, cooperative and sustainable security, further coordinating the efforts of the international community, increasing synergies for peace and taking integrated measures to promote peace through development. This year China received visits by the President of Palestine, Mr. Abbas, and the Prime Minister of Israel, Mr. Netanyahu, and has engaged with both sides. Recently President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to the meeting in commemoration of the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People in which he said that China firmly supports peace between Palestine and Israel (see A/AC.183/PV.386).

China will remain true to its commitment and continue to work towards the settlement of question of Palestine and the promotion of the peace, stability and development of the Middle East.