President,
China has stayed committed to developing a friendly relationship that works for all the Syrian people, respecting the choice of the Syrian people regarding the future of their country, and supporting the international community in helping Syria with the restoration of peace and stability, so that the Syrian people can live in dignity at an early date.
On adjusting the Security Council’s sanctions related to Syria, China's position has been loud and clear from the very beginning. We are of the view that the Security Council should take into full account the counter-terrorism and security situation in Syria, the complex potential impact that may be brought by the adjustments, and the long-term interests and actual needs of Syria, to properly address the legitimate concerns of all parties and make prudent decisions based on careful study. Regrettably, the draft resolution that was just put to vote failed to embody the above principles and spirit. China therefore had to abstain from the voting.
Over a period of time, Council members have held multiple rounds of consultations on the draft resolution. In the spirit of being responsible to Syria and the Syrian people, China actively participated in the consultations. Together with some members, we expressed legitimate concerns about counter-terrorism issues, in particular the foreign terrorist fighters in Syria, and put forward many constructive amendment proposals. However, the sponsor did not fully heed the views of all members and forced the Council to take actions even when there were huge differences among Council members, in an attempt to serve its own political agenda. China expresses its regret.
President,
At present, Syria is undergoing political transition with fragile security situation and an arduous task of counter-terrorism. A large number of foreign terrorist fighters have exploited this situation to their advantage, seriously threatening Syrian, regional, and international peace and security. Fighting against terrorism is the basis for Syria's national reconstruction. Any action taken by the Council on Syria should take into full account the counter-terrorism situation and should contribute to the achievement of the Council's objectives on counter-terrorism. Any support and assistance provided to Syria should not undermine the integrity and effectiveness of the Council’s sanctions regime.
The resolution just adopted reaffirms the Council's counter-terrorism requirements and makes it clear that Syria should fulfill its commitments in this regard, take decisive measures to prevent terrorist acts, and address the threat posed by foreign terrorist fighters, including the ETIM members in Syria. In this regard, the Syrian transitional government should fulfill its counter-terrorism obligations, take practical measures to make substantive progress, and win the trust of the international community.
At present, more than 80 entities and more than 250 individuals are still on the designation list by the ISIL (Da’esh) and Al-Qaida sanction committee, and measures such as travel bans, asset freezes, and arms embargo are still in effect against them. All countries are obligated to uphold the authority of the Council, strictly implement the Council's sanctions resolutions, and prevent all designated entities and individuals, including the ETIM, from obtaining funds, weapons, and any other types of support, directly or indirectly, from outside and posing a threat to the security of other countries.
President,
As an important country in the Middle East, the evolving situation in Syria affects regional peace and stability. It is imperative for the Council to pay close attention to the situation in Syria and take necessary actions in a timely manner in accordance with the developments on the ground, to ensure it moves in the right direction. China stands ready to work with the international community to continue to play a constructive role in achieving security, stability, and development in Syria at an early date.
Thank you, President.