China abstained from a United Nations Security Council vote Thursday on adjusting sanctions against Syria, with its envoy expressing concern over unresolved counter-terrorism issues and what it called unilateral U.S. pressure tactics. Resolution 2799, which removed two Syrian interim officials from an Islamic State and al-Qaida sanctions list, passed despite Beijing's reservations.
Balancing Security and Diplomacy
Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the UN, emphasized that the Council must prioritize Syria's "fragile security situation" when modifying sanctions. "Fighting against terrorism is the basis for Syria's national reconstruction," he stated, noting concerns about foreign terrorist fighters – including members of the East Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) – exploiting political transitions.
Behind the Abstention
While China participated actively in drafting proposals, Fu said the U.S.-sponsored resolution failed to address key amendments regarding terrorist financing risks. Over 160 entities and 430 individuals remain under active UN sanctions, including asset freezes and arms embargoes. Beijing stressed that any changes must not undermine these measures' "integrity and effectiveness."
Regional Implications
The vote comes as Syria faces dual challenges of political transition and persistent militant threats. Chinese officials reiterated that Security Council decisions should support – rather than complicate – counter-terrorism cooperation. "Substantive progress" in stabilizing Syria, Fu argued, requires aligning sanctions adjustments with on-ground security realities.
