China regrets UNSC ignoring Russia's proposal on Syria draft

Sierra Leone Times (IANS) Saturday 4th February, 2012

China Saturday voiced its regret that Russia's proposal on a Syria draft resolution was not taken into account by the other members of the UN Security Council.

Li Baodong, China's permanent representative to the UN, made the statement after he and his Russian counterpart Vitaly Churkin vetoed the draft resolution to promote a regime change in Syria.

"To push through a vote when parties are still seriously divided over the issue will not help maintain the unity and authority of the Security Council, or help resolve the issue," Li was quoted as saying by Xinhua.

"China supports the revision proposals raised by Russia, and has taken note that Russian foreign minister (Sergei Lavrov) will visit Syria next week," Li said.

"In this context, China voted against the draft resolution," he said.

"Like many council members, China maintains that, under the current circumstances, to put undue emphasis on pressing the Syrian government, prejudge the result of the dialogue or impose any solution will not help resolve the Syrian issue, but instead may further complicate the situation," he said.

China has all along followed closely the developments in Syria, he said.

"We call on all parties in Syria to stop violence, avoid, in particular, casualties of innocent civilians, restore order in the country as soon as possible, and respect the request of Syrian people for reform and safeguarding of their own interests. This serves the fundamental interest of Syria and its people."

"The international community should provide constructive assistance to help achieve the above goals. At the same time, the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of Syria should be fully respected."

"China will continue to work with the international community and play a positive role in the proper settlement of the Syrian issue," he added.