A Chinese envoy to the UN on Friday highlighted that safeguarding national stability is the overriding priority for South Sudan. Sun Lei, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, said at a UN Security Council meeting on South Sudan that the East African country has seen sluggish progress in its political transition, persistent volatility in its security situation, and an increasingly dire humanitarian landscape. Sun laid out China's core stance on tackling these intertwined challenges, making clear that safeguarding national stability is the foundational prerequisite for all progress in South Sudan.
"China calls on all parties to strictly abide by the ceasefire agreement, immediately halt hostilities and violence, and prevent the escalation and spread of conflict. Conflict parties must fulfill their obligations under international humanitarian law and protect civilians, humanitarian workers, and other personnel from harm. All ethnic groups in South Sudan share the same land, and compatriots should coexist in peace. We encourage the South Sudanese government to continue strengthening inter-ethnic dialogue to enhance understanding and mutual trust," he said.
Tom Fletcher, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, said the situation in South Sudan has deteriorated sharply, marked by a surge in conflict, displacement, hunger, and disease. He noted that millions face severe food insecurity and an imminent risk of famine, while humanitarian operations are severely constrained by critical funding shortfalls.
Meanwhile, Anita Kiki Gbeho, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative and Head of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), said that while funding constraints have diminished the mission’s capacity, it continues to play a critical role in protecting civilians and promoting human rights and justice. She stressed that South Sudan's challenges cannot be resolved through military means, requiring instead an inclusive political dialogue to advance the peace process.
Addressing the path forward, Sun noted that holding elections on schedule reflects the shared aspiration of the South Sudanese government and people, expressing hope that preparations will proceed smoothly.
Sun also warned that recent emergency budget cuts have seriously negatively impacted UNMISS, stating that the mission's role and capabilities must not be further weakened. He called on the international community to scale up humanitarian assistance to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
Chinese envoy highlights national stability as South Sudan's top priority at UN security council
