I thank Assistant Secretary-General Zouev and Ambassador Schoulgin Nyoni for their respective briefings. China listened closely to the briefing by Mr. Liberty.

The security situation in Liberia has stabilized in recent years and economic development is back on track. China is confident that under the leadership of President Weah the Liberian Government and its people will achieve even greater success on the path of nation-building and development. China pays tribute to the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) as its mandate has come to an end and commends it for the important contribution it has made to maintaining peace and stability in Liberia.

United Nations peacekeeping operations are an important means of maintaining international peace and security. China has always believed that United Nations peacekeeping should be subjected to timely adjustments in accordance with actual conditions and developments on the ground, up until its final exit.

At the same time, it is necessary to fully respect the will of the countries concerned and to work in close coordination with countries of the region and subregional organizations. UNMIL is a success story that is worth studying in order to identify lessons learned. Following the departure of UNMIL, we call upon the international community and Liberia’s bilateral and multilateral cooperation partners to enhance coordination with the country. We also call on the United Nations country team and the Peacebuilding Commission, as well as regional and subregional organizations, to strengthen coordination with the Liberian Government and to leverage their own expertise to play a positive role in strengthening the capacity-building of the country and to continue to assist Liberia in its economic and social development and the improvement of people’s livelihoods.

Whether in nation-building or fighting the Ebola outbreak, China has consistently stood by Liberia’s side. China has actively participated in UNMIL operations. In 2017, the United Nations conferred Peace Medals to all members of the Chinese peacekeeping riot squad. In February, the squad was awarded Liberia’s national medal by President Weah.

Looking forward, China will continue to pursue an African policy based on sincerity, practical results, affinity, good faith and upholding the values of friendship, justice and shared benefits. China will forever be a true friend and reliable partner of Africa. China will continue to play a constructive role, alongside the international community, in order to help the African continent achieve durable peace, prosperity and development.