China has called for heightened international cooperation to address the resurgence of terrorist activities in Syria during a UN Security Council briefing, warning that complacency could destabilize the region further. Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, emphasized the urgent need to combat groups such as the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement, which remain designated threats by the Security Council.
Rising Terrorist Activity Sparks Concern
Fu highlighted recent violent incidents in Syria's western coastal region and the southern city of Suwayda, attributing them to foreign terrorist fighters. "Continued tolerance of terrorism will only bring greater harm," he stated, urging Syrian interim authorities to intensify counterterrorism measures. The envoy stressed that Security Council sanctions must remain focused on curbing terrorist operations while safeguarding regional stability.
Balancing Sanctions and Stability
On potential adjustments to sanctions, Fu advocated for a cautious approach, emphasizing the need to assess Syria's security capacity and avoid inadvertently empowering extremist elements. He reiterated China's support for a UN-led political transition in line with Resolution 2254, urging inclusive dialogue among Syrian parties to restore peace.
Path to Sovereignty and Accountability
Fu reaffirmed China's stance on respecting Syria's territorial integrity, criticizing Israel's occupation of the Golan Heights as "entirely illegitimate." He called for transparent investigations into recent violence and urged all parties to prioritize stability. The envoy also emphasized the importance of upholding the mandate of the UN Disengagement Observer Force in the Syria-Israel disengagement zone.
As Syria navigates a critical juncture, China's remarks underscore its commitment to multilateral solutions and regional security in West Asia.
