President, 

I thank Special Envoy Geir Pedersen and Under-Secretary-General Tom Fletcher for their briefings. I have listened attentively to the statement made by the civil society representative Ms. Majd Chourbaji. I welcome the presence of the representatives of Syria, Iran, Iraq, and Türkiye at today's meeting. 

China and Syria are friendly nations. China has always been committed to developing a friendly relationship that works for all Syrian people. We have never interfered in Syria's internal affairs. We respect the choices made by the Syrian people themselves. In the current context, the international community should provide constructive support for an early return to peace and stability in Syria. The Syrian interim authorities should take concrete steps to positively respond to the concerns of the international community. I will make three points. 

First, it is important to stay firmly committed to an inclusive political transition. China supports the Syrian interim authorities in making efforts on the basis of the principles laid out in Council Resolution 2254 to continue the dialogue and consultations with all parties in Syria, aim for internal reconciliation at an early date, and shape a broad-based and inclusive governance structure. Syria cannot afford another breakout of massive violence. It is important to take seriously the voices of all Syrian communities, respect their rights fully, and protect their safety equally. Syria will hold elections for the interim People's Assembly. The UN can provide assistance in this regard. 

Second, it is essential to resolutely combat terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. With foreign terrorist fighters operating rampantly within its borders, the counter-terrorism landscape is still daunting in Syria. As long as terrorists remain present, Syria will have difficulty getting back to the path of normal development. Syria should effectively fulfill its counter-terrorism obligations by taking all necessary measures to combat all terrorist organizations listed by the Council, including the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement, and earn the trust of the international community through tangible actions. Counter-terrorism must follow a zero tolerance approach and must leave no room for shielding and condoning terrorism or even exploiting it for political purposes. 

Third, it is imperative to help ease the humanitarian plight as soon as possible. The international community, especially traditional donors, should step up their humanitarian commitment and support humanitarian operations in Syria with sufficient funding. The parties in Syria should fulfill the obligations under international humanitarian law by ensuring unhindered humanitarian access, guaranteeing the safety and security of humanitarian personnel, and facilitating humanitarian operations of the UN. We are confident that, with the help of the international community, the Syrian people will tide over this difficult time. 

President, 

In dealing with the Syrian issue, the international community should always abide by a fundamental principle, that is, the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of Syria must be fully respected by all. We call on Israel to cease its military operations against Syria and immediately withdraw from the Syrian territory. 

As a strategic partner of Middle East countries, China stands ready to join the international community to continue to play a constructive role in achieving lasting peace and stability in Syria and restoring peace and tranquility in the wider Middle East region. 

Thank you, President.