February 6, 2025
Colleagues,
I thank Special Representative Nicholas Haysom, Major General Charles Tai Gituai, and Mr. Edmund Yakani for their briefings. I welcome the Permanent Representative of South Sudan at today’s meeting.
Just now, in light of the Secretary-General’s report, we have engaged in a constructive discussion and put forward a number of views and recommendations on the situation of and challenges facing South Sudan in the political, economic, security, and humanitarian fields. China believes that the international community should continue to provide support to South Sudan in the following three areas.
First, advancing the political transition in an orderly manner. The political process in South Sudan is about to enter a new transition period. China appreciates the determination and willingness of the Government of South Sudan to implement the Revitalized Agreement, and welcomes the positive steps taken by South Sudan to prepare for the general elections. We note the resumption of the Tumaini Initiative process, and call on all parties in South Sudan to continue to bridge their differences through dialogue in the overall interests of the country. On the issue of political transition, haste makes waste. The international community should genuinely respect South Sudan’s sovereignty and ownership, take into full consideration its actual national conditions, and demonstrate sufficient tolerance and patience.
Second, maintaining peace and stability in the country. Recently, several security incidents, including inter-communal clashes, have occurred in Eastern Equatoria, Warrap, and some other states in South Sudan. China encourages UNMISS to increase its support for the Government of South Sudan in promoting inter-communal dialogue and reconciliation. The international community should help the Government of South Sudan better assume its primary responsibility for maintaining peace and protecting civilians. Sanctions such as arms embargo are constraining the security capacity building of South Sudan, and should be adjusted or lifted as soon as possible.
Third, addressing the humanitarian challenges. The continued spillover of the conflict in Sudan and the influx of more than one million displaced persons and returnees into South Sudan, coupled with increased food insecurity and the spread of infectious diseases, have exacerbated the already fragile economic and humanitarian situation. The international community should step up its support to help improve humanitarian response capacity, while avoiding attaching political conditions to assistance. Recently, China has provided batches of food and medical supplies to South Sudan. And we will continue to do our utmost to help South Sudan meet its humanitarian challenges.
Colleagues,
Prior to today’s meeting, taking advantage of the virtual reality technology, we conducted a “field visit” of the work of UNMISS, during which I was also pleased to see China’s own Blue Helmets. Recently, a new batch of Chinese peacekeepers for South Sudan have successfully completed their rotation. I trust they will, as always, fulfill their duties and responsibilities. Special Representative Haysom has led UNMISS in overcoming challenges and performing duties in an excellent manner. China wishes to recognize the above performance. We stand ready to work with the international community to continue to make positive contributions to the peace, stability, development, and prosperity in South Sudan.