Remarks on the Safety and Protection of Waterways in the Maritime Domain by China’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Fu Cong at the UN Security Council Open Debate

President,

At the outset, I welcome His Excellency Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani of Bahrain presiding over this meeting, and I thank Secretary-General António Guterres, Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez, and Mr. Nick Childs for their briefings.

Oceans are the cradle of life and connect the world, carrying more than 80% of global trade. They have become the main arteries for the functioning of economies and human society. To guarantee the safety and security of international shipping routes is crucial to the stability of global production and supply chains and to people's well-being, serving the common interests of all nations. In recent years, due to rising global turmoil, maritime security issues have intensified and have become increasingly intertwined with geopolitical conflicts, traditional and non-traditional security risks, and global governance deficits. Upholding the spirit of unity and cooperation, we need to view maritime security issues in a comprehensive and in-depth manner, and seek solutions that address both the symptoms and root causes. Let me stress the following points.

First, we must find political solutions to hotspot issues. The stability and smooth operation of international shipping routes are closely linked to peace and stability in the surrounding region, especially coastal states. Only through dialogue and consultation can we deescalate hotspot issues and create an enabling environment for the safety of these routes. Excessive use of military means cannot fundamentally resolve risks. Rather, it will exacerbate tensions and confrontation and create even greater security crises.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital corridor for the international trade of goods and energy. Maintaining the security, stability, and unimpeded passage in this region is in the common interest of the international community. The root cause of the blockade of the Strait is the illegal military actions launched by the US and Israel against Iran. Despite the recently concluded ceasefire arrangement, the US has stepped up its military deployment and imposed targeted blockades. This is dangerous and irresponsible behavior. The solution to ending the blockade of the Strait is to achieve a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire as soon as possible, so as to restore peace and stability in the Gulf region and the Middle East. China commends Pakistan and others for their role as mediators, and urges relevant parties to resolve disputes and conflicts by political and diplomatic means. China opposes any moves that could undermine the ceasefire and lead to escalation and confrontation. China will continue to play a constructive role in promoting regional peace and stability, guided by the spirit of the four propositions on safeguarding and promoting peace and stability in the Middle East proposed by President Xi Jinping, namely, staying committed to the principle of peaceful coexistence, staying committed to the principle of national sovereignty, staying committed to the principle of international rule of law, and staying committed to a balanced approach to development and security.

Second, we must firmly uphold international rule of law. UNCLOS, together with relevant international treaties and customary international law, collectively form the foundation of today's international maritime order. All countries should interpret and apply the Convention fully, accurately, and in good faith, and refrain from selective application and double standards. Everyone should exercise the rights to freedom of navigation granted by international law in good faith, earnestly respect the sovereignty, security, and legitimate rights and interests of coastal states, and ensure the smooth flow of normal maritime trade and navigation.

Third, we must combat maritime crimes in accordance with law. According to reports from relevant agencies, the world saw 137 incidents of piracy and armed robbery at sea last year, the highest in the past five years. Criminal groups and terrorist forces are increasingly using oceans as their key channels for illicit activities such as the trafficking of drugs, arms, and persons. By observing the framework of international law, all countries should combat maritime crimes in accordance with laws and regulations, while respecting the flag state's exclusive jurisdiction over vessels flying its flag. At the same time, we need to actively support coastal states' economic development and improvement of livelihood, thereby eliminating the breeding ground of crimes and turmoil.

Fourth, we must consistently improve global governance. Oceans are the shared home of all humanity. Only by following the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution, and shared benefits, and by promoting the establishment of a more just and equitable global ocean governance system, can we truly realize the beautiful vision of maritime peace and security and a thriving maritime economy. All countries should support the UN in playing a central role, continue to advance the process of international lawmaking and rule-making, and actively address emerging challenges, including marine ecological conservation and sea-level rise. Upholding the principles of openness, inclusiveness, and win-win cooperation, we need to further boost maritime connectivity and infrastructure development, and promote the sustainable and rational use of marine resources.

President,

As always, China, being a staunch defender of and contributor to the international maritime law, has taken concrete actions to uphold the authority and integrity of UNCLOS, and was among the first to sign and ratify the BBNJ Agreement. China has been playing an active role in such areas as safety of maritime navigation, disaster reduction and prevention, and ecological conservation. China has dispatched 48 naval escort task forces to the Gulf of Aden and Somali waters to carry out routine escort missions. China is also an active participant in the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. China has issued the Belt and Road Blue Cooperation Initiative, and actively supported developing countries and small-island countries in attaining the SDGs, providing high-quality global maritime public goods to the international community. Together with the international community, we will continue our unremitting efforts to safeguard common maritime security and build a maritime community with a shared future.

Thank you, President.