President,

I thank Special Representative Miroslav Jenča for his comprehensive briefing.

China congratulates Colombia on the successful conduct of its presidential election. This election coincides with the tenth anniversary of the signing of the Colombian Peace Agreement. Thanks to the sustained efforts of all parties in Colombia over the years, the peace process has made positive progress. China looks forward to a smooth transition of government in Colombia and calls on all relevant parties to demonstrate greater political will and stronger commitment to action to ensure the steady and sustained advancement of the peace process. I would like to make four points.

First, safeguard the gains of peace and advance the implementation of the Peace Agreement. The Peace Agreement provides an effective pathway to lasting peace in Colombia and should be implemented in a comprehensive and balanced manner. China supports the new Colombian Government in making the implementation of the Peace Agreement a policy priority. Building on existing achievements, the Government should increase resource allocation and strengthen coordination to achieve new substantive progress in such areas as comprehensive rural reform and disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR). The Commission for the Follow-up, Promotion and Verification of the Implementation of the Final Agreement (CSIVI) provides an important platform for consultation among all parties, and China welcomes the extension of its mandate. The Special Jurisdiction for Peace, as an important component of the Peace Agreement, has effectively promoted justice and national reconciliation, and should continue to function effectively.

Second, consolidate security gains and strengthen the protection of civilians. Former combatants and grassroots communities continue to face threats of violence. China supports the Colombian Government in strengthening State presence, extending effective State authority to remote conflict-affected areas, creating an effective deterrent against violent activities, and effectively ensuring the safety and security of vulnerable groups such as former combatants, ethnic minorities, women, and children. We support the Colombian Government in maintaining engagement with armed groups and advancing peace talks so as to continue making progress.

Third, unlock development dividends and eradicate the root causes of conflict. Inadequate development remains a major driver of recurring conflict. China welcomes the positive progress Colombia has made in land formalization and the significant decline in rural poverty. We hope the new Government will continue to increase investment in development, accelerate land adjudication and formalization, strengthen rural infrastructure, and create more educational and employment opportunities for farmers, so as to benefit more people at the grassroots level. Systematic support should also be provided to former combatants in such areas as land allocation, housing, vocational training, and productive activities, ensuring that they can reintegrate into society with dignity.

Fourth, build international consensus and provide stronger support. Colombia's peace process relies on the continued attention and support of the international community. China appreciates the important role played by the United Nations Verification Mission in Colombia and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General, and supports the Mission in continuing to effectively implement its mandate. The international community should respect Colombia's ownership of the peace process and provide more constructive assistance based on Colombia's own needs and priorities. Greater efforts should be made to better coordinate development assistance with peacebuilding efforts, channel more funding and projects to areas most affected by conflict, and generate greater synergy in support of the peace process.

President,

Colombia's peace process stands as a successful example of resolving conflict through dialogue and consultation. China stands ready to work with the Colombian Government and all other parties to continue advancing a Colombian-led and Colombian-owned peace process and make positive contributions to the realization of comprehensive peace, stability, and development in Colombia.

I thank you, President.