According to the United Nations News Service, on May 29 local time, the United Nations Security Council passed a resolution extending the arms embargo and targeted sanctions against South Sudan for another year, until May 31, 2027. Additionally, the mandate of the expert group that assists the South Sudan sanctions committee was extended until July 1, 2027.
The resolution was passed with a vote of 9 in favor and 6 abstentions. China, Russia, and four other countries abstained from voting.
According to the website of Chinas Permanent Mission to the United Nations, after the Security Council voted on the draft resolution authorizing the extension of sanctions against South Sudan, Sun Lei, Deputy Representative of China to the United Nations, made an explanatory statement.
Sun Lei said that the draft resolution on the extension of sanctions against South Sudan, which was just voted upon, is essentially a technical extension. However, the original sanctions resolution imposed excessive pressure on South Sudan. The wording of the draft resolution was unbalanced in many places. China has always had reservations regarding these aspects, and therefore abstained from voting.
Sun Lei stated that the Security Council has imposed arms embargoes against South Sudan for nearly 8 years, which has limited the ability of the South Sudanese government to protect civilians and maintain domestic stability. Lifting the arms embargo is a consistent demand from South Sudan and other regional countries. China calls on the Security Council to take into account the strong demands and legitimate concerns of Africa. When conditions are ripe, the Council should promptly adjust or lift the sanctions, thereby avoiding using sanctions as a political tool for pressure or interference in internal affairs.
Sun Lei emphasized that China has always advocated that sanctions are a means, not an end. The Security Council should actively assist the affected countries in working towards the eventual lifting of sanctions. China noted that the draft resolution requests the Secretary-General to make recommendations regarding the revision of the key criteria for lifting sanctions. The Security Council should refine and update these criteria based on the Secretary-Generals recommendations and the current situation in South Sudan, making them more practical and feasible, thereby enabling South Sudan to implement these measures more effectively and meet the requirements more quickly.
Sun Lei stated that the South Sudan government has repeatedly indicated that it will hold general elections by the end of this year, fulfilling the long-cherished hopes of the people of South Sudan. The Chinese side supports the orderly preparation for elections in South Sudan. It also supports the efforts of the United Nations, the African Union, and IGAD to mediate and work together. On the basis of respecting South Sudans sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, all parties should resolve their differences through dialogue and negotiation. Together, they should implement the agreement to revitalize the country, advance the political transition, and achieve peace, stability, and development at an early date.
