Source:www.fmprc.gov.cn
On the evening of September 27, 2013, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2118, which provides for the destruction of Chemical weapons in Syria and the political settlement of the Syrian issue.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi made explanatory remarks stating the position of the Chinese government after the casting of the vote. Wang Yi stressed that while handling the Syrian issue, the Security Council must bear in mind the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, take a responsible attitude to the Syrian people, to the world and to history and ensure that any decision can withstand the tests of history. China has always opposed the use of forces in international relations and has always considered the military means not a solution to the Syrian issue. Resolution 2118 has pulled the Syrian situation back onto the peace track from the brink of an imminent war and has provided new opportunities for the political settlement of the Syrian issue. The resolution complies with the big direction of seeking for a political settlement to the Syrian issue, has reflected the role of the UN Security Council, and has safeguarded the solidarity of the Security Council. Resolution 2118 also sets the general objective of destructing the chemical weapons in Syria and identifies the roadmap for the next step work. China is willing to send specialists to participate in the related work and provide funds for related work.
Wang Yi pointed out that political settlement is the only solution to the Syrian issue and the political settlement should go in parallel with the destruction process. Resolution 2118 has clearly required the compliance with the Geneva Communique and has urged the convening of the Geneva II conference. The related parties in Syria should proceed from the interests of the country and people of Syria, realize ceasefire as early as possible, stop the crisis through dialogues and rebuild the homeland. The Syrian issue is complex and complicated. Neither the destruction of chemical weapons nor the political settlement process can move on smoothly. China hopes that the parties maintain patience and tolerance, stick to the principle of peacefully settling disputes, and stick to the direction of political settlement. China is willing to work with the parties and make tireless efforts for the comprehensive, proper and long-term solution to the Syrian issue.