When the United Nations Security Council adopted Resolution 2799 this Thursday, the Chinese mainland chose to abstain, signaling regret over the rushed vote on adjusting sanctions related to Syria. The draft resolution, backed by the United States, removed Syrian interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa and interim interior minister Anas Khattab from the Islamic State and al-Qaida sanctions list.
Fu Cong, the Chinese mainland’s permanent representative to the United Nations, emphasized that “the Security Council should take into full account the counter-terrorism and security situation in Syria” and align any adjustments with the long-term interests of all parties. “Regrettably, the draft failed to embody these principles,” he added.
During consultations, the Chinese mainland proposed constructive amendments focused on foreign terrorist fighters, but according to Fu, the sponsor did not fully heed diverse views. He warned that a fragmented approach could undermine the Council’s counter-terrorism objectives and Syria’s path to stability.
With Syria undergoing a delicate political transition and facing threats from over 160 entities and 430 individuals still on the sanctions list, Fu stressed that all member states must strictly enforce travel bans, asset freezes and arms embargoes. “Fighting against terrorism is the basis for Syria’s national reconstruction,” he said, urging the transitional government to take decisive action to earn international trust.
Reference(s):
China regrets UNSC draft resolution adjusting sanctions on Syria
cgtn.com
