Chinese Deputy Representative to the United Nations, Sun Lei, spoke at an informal dialogue meeting of the sanctions coordinator for the United Nations Security Council on the 2nd. He emphasized that the sanctions system of the Security Council needs to be continuously improved.
According to the transcript on the website of the Chinese Permanent Mission to the United Nations, Sun Lei said the following:
Chairperson
I thank Greece and Pakistan for co-initiating this meeting, and I also listened carefully to the presentation given by Ms. Li Jingling.
Two years ago, the Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2744, making significant adjustments to the functions of the sanctions de-listing coordinator. The resolution requires the coordinator to provide more comprehensive and detailed information to the relevant sanctions committee when reviewing de-listing applications, thereby enhancing the transparency and fairness of the Security Council's sanctions mechanism. China welcomes Ms. Li Jingling’s recent appointment as the sanctions de-listing coordinator. We are willing to work with all parties to support the coordinator mechanism in playing its proper role. I would like to emphasize several points:
First, the coordinator must perform their duties objectively and fairly. Although the coordinator does not make recommendations regarding whether a person should be removed from the list, their reports and opinions are important references for the committee’s decision-making process. It is hoped that the coordinator will communicate extensively and thoroughly with the applicant, relevant countries, the expert group of the Sanctions Committee, as well as United Nations envoys and special representatives, in accordance with the requirements of Resolution 2744. The coordinator should provide a comprehensive and objective reflection of all parties’ views and offer responsible opinions based on facts.
Secondly, the Security Council should support the role of the coordinator. Members of the Security Council should take the lead, actively provide necessary information to the coordinator, and respect the professionalism and independence of the coordinator. Based on the actual situation, agreements should be reached with the coordinator regarding confidentiality measures for relevant information, to avoid unnecessary disputes. The reports and opinions of the coordinator should be carefully considered, and the relevant committees should be supported in making fair and responsible decisions regarding removal from the list.
Third, the international community should make good use of the sanctions regime. The Security Council should promote the international community’s understanding of the sanctions regime through feasible methods. This includes regulating the implementation of sanctions measures as well as properly utilizing procedures for delisting and exemptions. In handling delisting requests, the coordinator should also assist in updating listing information, forwarding complaints regarding mistaken listings, and receiving applications for exemptions related to the 1267 and 1988 sanctions.
Fourth, the sanctions regime of the Security Council needs to be continuously improved. Some sanctions mechanisms lack clear and feasible mechanisms for withdrawal, becoming a long-term constraint on the countries involved. China hopes that the Security Council will use platforms such as the Informal Working Group on General Issues of Sanctions to strengthen discussions on related issues, build consensus, and promote the continuous improvement of the sanctions regime, thereby better serving the goal of maintaining international peace and security.
Thank you, Chairman.
