President, 

I welcome His Excellency Željko Komšić, rotating chairman of the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as the representatives from Serbia, Croatia, and the European Union to today’s meeting. 

Since the beginning of this year, the trial of the leader of Republika Srpska before the court of Bosnia and Herzegovina has resulted in prolonged political divisions and heightened inter-ethnic tensions. China expresses deep concerns over this development. In light of the latest situation, I would like to share a few observations. 

First, the heightened tension serves no party's interest in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Against the backdrop of persistent political instability, the country faces multiple social challenges including slowing economic growth, high inflation, labor outflow, and rising unemployment, with the overall economic and social situation remains grim. China hopes that the two entities, the three ethnic groups, and all political parties in Bosnia and Herzegovina will place the interest of the country and its people above all else, exercise calm and restraints, resolve differences through peaceful means, and work towards achieving political and social stability at an early date, thereby creating favorable conditions for national development and for the people to live in peace and prosperity. 

Second, we must persist in seeking inclusive solutions through constructive dialogue. The complex ethnic relations in the Balkans have their historical reasons. The 1995 Dayton Peace Agreement has generally played a significant role in promoting harmonious coexistence among different ethnic groups. As a special arrangement made during a special period, the Agreement could not foresee or resolve all the problems encountered in the process of peace, reconciliation, and development in Bosnia and Herzegovina. To resolve these issues, the key lies in mutual tolerance among all ethnic groups, resolving differences through dialogue, and jointly seeking solutions. 

Third, the fate of Bosnia and Herzegovina should be in the hands of its own people. For some time now, “High Representative” Schmidt has frequently invoked the so-called Bonn Powers, which have not only failed to help resolve, but have instead exacerbated conflicts and divisions among ethnic groups in Bosnia and Herzegovina, plunging the country’s political situation into an increasingly intractable predicament. Neither the high representative system nor the Bonn Powers can be allowed to become long-term or permanent arrangements. Ultimately, matters concerning Bosnia and Herzegovina should be resolved by its own people. 

Fourth, we must learn from history to prevent tragedies from recurring. The General Assembly resolution designating the international day of commemoration of the genocide in Srebrenica has sparked significant controversy within Bosnia and Herzegovina, with relevant regional countries and member states also expressing strong objections. Forcibly advancing following actions on the UN platform will only exacerbate ethnic tensions, hinder the reconciliation process between BiH and its regional neighbors, and undermine peace and stability in the Balkans and even across Europe. 

President, 

China's position on the issue of BiH has been consistent and clear. We respect the sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity of Bosnia and Herzegovina and respect its people’s right to determine their own future. We encourage the three major ethnic groups to continue dialogue and consultation with the goal of promoting national development and enhancing the well-being of the people, and to jointly uphold the country’s political and social stability. 

China commends the constructive role played by countries in the region such as Serbia and Croatia in safeguarding the security and stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and welcomes the extension of the mandate for EUFOR ALTHEA. China remains committed to developing friendly relations with all ethnic groups in Bosnia and Herzegovina and will continue to play a constructive role in safeguarding the peace and stability in the country as well as promoting regional security. 

I thank you.