President,

I listened carefully to the briefing by Deputy Prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Khan, and I welcome the representative of Sudan to today's meeting.

It has been more than 20 years since the Security Council referred the situation in Darfur, Sudan, to the International Criminal Court (ICC). China has consistently followed the Court's investigations, prosecutions, and trials. We have taken note of the latest report submitted by the Office of the Prosecutor, as well as the progress of its investigations into the situation in Darfur. I would like to make three points.

First, the Court should always uphold objectivity and impartiality. China supports the international community in combating and punishing the most serious international crimes in accordance with the law, so as to deter acts of violence. At the same time, allegations of international crimes are highly sensitive and have far-reaching implications. In handling such matters, the Court should exercise prudence, adhere to facts and the law, and ensure that relevant proceedings are open and transparent. International judicial mechanisms must discharge their duties independently and impartially, strictly proceed from international law, avoid politicization and selective justice, and earn the trust of all parties through concrete actions.

Second, the Court should respect the judicial sovereignty of the State concerned. China has consistently emphasized that the principle of complementarity established by the Rome Statute is an important foundation for the work of the ICC. The Court should uphold this principle in handling all cases and fully respect the judicial sovereignty and jurisdiction of the State concerned. China welcomes the report's reference to the positive attitude demonstrated by the Sudanese Government toward cooperation with the Office of the Prosecutor. We hope that the Office will continue to strengthen communication with the Sudanese Government, listen to its legitimate concerns, and avoid undue interference and external pressure. The Court's investigations into the situation in Darfur should strictly follow the mandate authorized by the relevant Security Council resolutions, properly define the scope and temporal jurisdiction of its investigations, and prevent undue expansion.

Third, all parties should create favorable conditions for restoring peace and stability in Sudan. The situation in Darfur is rooted in a complex historical background and current realities. The protracted conflict has severely undermined regional peace and stability. In addressing these issues, the international community should not only pursue accountability, but also step up diplomatic efforts, promote an early ceasefire between the parties to the conflict, ensure compliance with international humanitarian law, stop attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure, and seek a political solution through dialogue and negotiation. International judicial activities should contribute to restoring peace and stability in Sudan rather than aggravating tensions among the parties. Countries outside the region should stop interfering in Sudan's internal affairs in ways that undermine Sudan's peace process.

China firmly supports Sudan's efforts to safeguard its sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, and stands ready to work with all parties to help Sudan return to peace and stability at an early date and realize development and prosperity.

Thank you, President.