Remarks on Syria by China’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Fu Cong at the UN Security Council Briefing

President,

I would like to thank Special Envoy Pedersen and Director Wosornu for their briefings, and welcome the presence of the representatives from Syria, Norway, Türkiye, Tunisia, and Iran.

The situation in Syria remains complex and fragile, with serious challenges ahead. The recent intense armed conflicts and serious violations in Suweida in southern Syria have resulted in major civilian casualties, drawing grave concern from the international community. All parties in Syria should act in the fundamental interests of Syria and its people, work together in the same direction and make joint efforts to restore security, stability, and socioeconomic recovery. I would like to make three points:

First, it is imperative to advance the political transition. Syria is grappling with deep-rooted clan and sectarian tensions. Security Council Resolution 2254 makes it clear that the only sustainable solution to the crisis in Syria is through an inclusive and Syrian-led political process, and calls for a political settlement to conflicts and the protection of the rights of all Syrians. Under the current circumstances, these principles continue to serve as important guidelines. The Syrian interim authorities should actively advance an inclusive political transition and address the concerns of all parties through extensive dialogue. The United Nations should play an active role in this process, and China supports Special Envoy Pedersen's efforts in this regard.

Parties to the Suweida conflicts must strictly observe the agreed ceasefire and refrain from further hostilities. Armed personnel from all factions must comply with international humanitarian law and cease attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure. China takes note of the Syrian interim authorities' commitment to investigating all violations and holding perpetrators accountable. We look forward to Syria conducting transparent, credible, and responsible investigations and accountability measures to deliver justice to the victims.

Second, it is imperative to resolutely fight against terrorism. The 1267 Sanctions Committee's report indicates that foreign terrorist fighters hold violent extremist views and their integration into the army poses a risk to Syria's internal security and stability. There are reports that foreign terrorists responsible for violations in the western coast were also involved in the crimes in Suweida. These developments demonstrate that any sheltering or condoning of terrorism is dangerous and can only lead to greater suffering for the people of Syria and the wider region. We urge the Syrian interim authorities to take decisive action to combat all terrorist groups listed by the Security Council, including the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM).

Third, Syria's sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity must be fully respected. China condemns Israel's attacks on Syria. The Golan Heights are internationally recognized as occupied Syrian territory, and Israel's occupation is null and void. Israel should withdraw from Syrian territory at an early date, the 1974 Disengagement Agreement should be observed, and UNDOF should be allowed to fulfill its mandate without obstruction.

President,

At present, the Middle East region remains embroiled in turmoil, with conflicts and confrontations continuing to flare. The Palestinian question lies at the heart of the Middle East issue. As the High-Level Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine and the Implementation of the Two-State Solution opens this week, China looks forward to its positive outcomes and expects it to inject strong impetus into the implementation of the two-state solution and create favorable conditions for the restoration of peace in the region. China stands ready to work with the international community to play a constructive role in achieving lasting peace and stability in Syria and the region.

Thank you, President.