Madam President,

I thank Special Representative Anita Kiki Gbeho and Interim Chairperson George Aggrey Owinow for their briefings. I have also listened carefully to the statement by Ms. Lilian Riziq. I welcome the Deputy Permanent Representative of South Sudan to today's meeting.

Recently, the National Elections Commission of South Sudan officially announced that general elections will be held by the end of this year, marking a critical stage in the country's transitional process. To help the world's youngest nation make steady progress on the path toward peace and development, I would like to make four points.

First, maintaining national stability is the fundamental prerequisite. While the security situation in South Sudan has generally stabilized in recent months, localized clashes and intercommunal violence continue to occur. China commends the South Sudan People's Defence Forces (SSPDF) for their unilateral declaration of a cessation of hostilities and calls on all parties to remain calm, exercise restraint, refrain from the use of force, and prevent further escalation. Protecting civilians and humanitarian workers is a red line under international humanitarian law that all parties are obliged to respect. We support the Government of South Sudan and UNMISS in continuing to promote intercommunal dialogue, implement more confidence-building measures, and foster harmony, solidarity and mutual assistance among communities.

Second, building political consensus is the only way forward. China calls on all political parties in South Sudan to act in the overall interests of the country and the fundamental well-being of its people, faithfully uphold and implement the Revitalized Peace Agreement, and properly address differences and build consensus through inclusive dialogue. China welcomes the mediation efforts led by the African Union High-Level Ad Hoc Committee for South Sudan and High Representative Jakaya Kikwete. We encourage the United Nations to play its role through the Tripartite Mechanism and support African solutions to African problems. The international community should, on the basis of respecting South Sudan's sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, play a more constructive role in promoting peace and stability and assisting the people of South Sudan. Relevant sanctions on South Sudan should be adjusted or lifted in a timely manner, and undue interference or pressure should be avoided.

Third, improving the economy and people's livelihoods provides essential support. South Sudan continues to face multiple internal and external challenges, including displacement, food insecurity, flooding and disease outbreaks. The international community should provide more development and humanitarian assistance to help South Sudan improve infrastructure, promote economic diversification, enhance people's well-being in such areas as education, healthcare and employment, strengthen its resilience against risks, and bolster its endogenous development capacity. Recently, China provided a new batch of emergency food assistance to South Sudan, and the China-aided Air Traffic Management System project was officially commissioned. We will continue to provide assistance to the best of our ability.

Fourth, supporting UNMISS in fulfilling its mandate is an important safeguard. As noted in the Secretary-General's report, reductions in UNMISS's budget and operational footprint have seriously affected humanitarian operations and the security environment. China once again expresses regret over the Security Council's decision to reduce UNMISS's mandate and force levels. We support the Secretary-General and the Force Commander in conducting assessments of military and police capabilities to ensure that the Mission has the resources necessary to carry out its mandate. As a permanent member of the Security Council and a major troop-contributing country to UNMISS, China will continue to support the work of SRSG Gbeho, support UNMISS in strengthening cooperation with the Government of South Sudan, and enable the Mission to play a greater role in promoting peace, security and stability in South Sudan.

Madam President,

South Sudan has just celebrated the 15th anniversary of its independence. China extends its sincere congratulations on the achievements the country has made in advancing the peace process, nation-building and economic development. As a good friend of South Sudan, China stands ready to work with the international community in firmly supporting the efforts of the Government and people of South Sudan to achieve national reconciliation and lasting peace, and will continue to play a constructive role toward that end.

I thank you, Madam President.