President,

I thank Deputy Special Envoy Cordone and Under-Secretary-General Fletcher for their briefings. I have also listened attentively to the statement made by civil society representative, Mr. Tabbara.

While the situation in Syria is generally stabilizing, the country faces multiple daunting challenges, including intertwined internal and external security risks and the uphill struggle to improve people's lives. The Syrian transitional government should work in concert with the international community and adopt more practical measures in order to consolidate the hard-won positive momentum, effectively enhance the well-being of its people, and promote long-term stability and security across the country. I would like to make five points:

First, Syria has largely completed the integration of its northeastern region and achieved significant new progress in the political transition process. The transitional government has made positive efforts in this regard, which is commendable. China supports Syria to advance a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned domestic political process in line with the spirit of the Council Resolution 2254, and actively explores a development path suited to its national conditions.

Second, the ability to effectively handle communal relations represents a test of the governance capacity of the transitional government. We hope that the Syrian transitional government will proceed from the interests of the entire Syrian people, listen attentively to the demands of various groups, protect the rights of all communities on an equal basis, resolve internal differences through inclusive dialogue, and build national consensus on reconciliation.

Third, a large number of foreign terrorist fighters remain active in Syria, posing a persistent threat and a grave risk to the country's peaceful reconstruction. Syria must never become a safe haven for terrorism—this is the consensus of the international community. China urges the Syrian transitional government to remain steadfast in its determination to counter terrorism and take all effective measures to resolutely combat all international terrorist organizations designated by the Security Council, including the ETIM.

Fourth, conflict and upheaval are not Syria's destiny. The Syrian people deserve a new life in peace and stability. At present, Syria faces acute challenges regarding unemployment, inflation, and infrastructure. China supports the Syrian transitional government in making development and reconstruction its central task, encourages Syria to foster a safe and friendly business environment and create favorable conditions for economic recovery. We also call on the international community to sustain its humanitarian assistance to Syria and address the most pressing humanitarian needs.

Fifth, the Golan Heights is occupied Syrian territory. The Security Council has adopted multiple resolutions demanding the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Syrian Golan. China respects Syria's sovereignty, independence, unity, and territorial integrity. We oppose unilateral actions to change the status on the ground. China calls on Israel to cease all military operations in Syrian territory and withdraw its forces without delay. The 1974 Disengagement of Forces Agreement should be effectively observed. China supports the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force in fulfilling its mandate as authorized by the Council without obstruction.

President,

Next Monday marks the International Day of Peace. This day embodies the international community's aspiration to end all conflicts, as well as the shared vision of people across the globe for lasting peace. Restoring peace and stability to the wider Middle East region, including Syria, is an integral part of the global cause of peace and development. As a sincere friend to Syria and many other countries in the region, China will continue to play a constructive role in helping Syria and the region achieve security, stability, and development at an early date.

Thank you, President.