China announces vision on Syrian crisis

The Chinese government has expressed concerns over what it described as a "grave situation" in Syria on the backdrop of continuing violence as well as the "dim prospects of a peaceful settlement". The vision came in a statement by the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Sunday for the political resolution on the Syria issue, reported Chinese news agency (Xinhua). According to the statement, China called for the Syrian Government and all parties concerned to immediately cease all acts of violence, particularly violence against innocent civilians stressing that factions in Syria should express political aspirations through non-violent means. It announced its support for the United Nation's (UN) leading role in coordinating humanitarian relief efforts as well as the active efforts made by the Arab states and the Arab League (AL) to promote a political solution to the crisis. Under the precondition of respecting Syria's sovereignty, China called for the UN or an impartial body acceptable to all parties to conduct an objective and comprehensive assessment of the humanitarian situation in Syria, ensuring the delivery and distribution of humanitarian aid. The Asian country stated its readiness to provide humanitarian assistance to the Syrian people. China urged the Syrian Government and various factions to bear in mind the long-term and fundamental interests of their country and people and immediately launch an inclusive political dialogue through impartial mediation of the Joint Special Envoy of the United Nations (UN) and the Arab League (AL). They should agree on a road-map and timetable for reform through consultation and implement them as soon as possible with a view to restoring national stability and public order in Syria. China addressed members of the international community to earnestly respect the independence, sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Syria and the right of the Syrian people to independently choose their political system. It stated its disapproval of armed interference or pushing for "regime change" in Syria, in belief that using or threat of sanctions does not help to resolve this issue appropriately. Additionally, China welcomed the appointment of the Joint Special Envoy on the Syrian crisis by the UN and the AL who would play a constructive role in resolving the crisis. It called for Members of the Security Council to strictly abide by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and the basic norms governing international relations.