Colleagues, 

I thank Assistant Secretary-General Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee and Special Envoy Cong Guang for their briefings. I welcome the presence of the representatives of Sudan and South Sudan at this meeting. 

The ongoing conflict in Sudan and instability in South Sudan are delaying the Abyei political process. The situation on the ground remains grim on both security and humanitarian fronts, and warrants sufficient attention from the Security Council and the international community at large. In connection with the Secretary-General's report, I wish to highlight four points. 

First, any definitive solution to the Abyei issue must be a political one. In spite of their respective challenges, the Governments of Sudan and South Sudan have continued to commit themselves to constructive engagement. The relevant progress does not come easily. The international community should respect the sovereignty and ownership of both countries, encourage them to honor their political commitments, keep up the positive momentum, and, when conditions permit and without delay, revive the joint political and security mechanism. China welcomes Special Envoy Cong's recent visit to Abyei, during which he engaged extensively with various parties. We support strengthened mediation and coordination efforts of the UN along with such organizations as the African Union and IGAD. 

Second, maintaining peace and stability in Abyei remains the top priority. During the reporting period, the cross-border flows of armed personnel and illegal arms and the surge in violent incidents are deeply concerning. China calls on the parties to uphold and implement the 2011 Abyei agreement on temporary arrangements, respect the demilitarized status of Abyei, and work together to strengthen the rule of law on the ground, we welcome the joint efforts of the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya communities to prevent the proliferation of weapons and support the UNISFA's efforts to promote dialogue, resolve differences, and enhance mutual trust among the communities through mechanisms such as the traditional leaders conference. 

Third, improving the economy and livelihoods in Abyei is a vital safeguard. China welcomes the joint implementation of the Abyei joint program by UNISFA and the UN country teams in Sudan and South Sudan. Through initiatives such as refugee resettlement, quick impact projects, and capacity-building, the program aims to help the people of Abyei address humanitarian crises, achieve sustainable development, and break the cycle of violence. The international community should support the humanitarian and development agencies that have stayed and are operating in Abyei with more resources, with a view to enhancing effectiveness and greater synergy between them and UNISFA. 

Fourth, ensuring UNISFA's mandate implementation capabilities is an indispensable condition. China strongly condemns the attack on the UNISFA base in Kadugli, and extends deep condolences over the demise of peacekeepers. China commends UNISFA for actively performing its duties under difficult conditions and making visible contributions to protecting civilians, mitigating conflicts, and improving people's livelihoods. We call on the Governments of Sudan and South Sudan to provide maximum support and facilitation for UNISFA's deployment, operations, safety and security, and logistics.

Colleagues, 

UNISFA enjoys support from both host governments, popularity among the general public in Abyei, and broad recognition by the international community. As the second largest financial contributor to UN peacekeeping operations and a major troop-contributing country to UNISFA, China supports the continued effective deployment and functioning of UNISFA, and remains committed to working with all parties to contribute constructively to peace, stability, and the political process in Abyei.