Chinese UN envoy calls for political solution to Syrian question

UNITED NATIONS - A Chinese envoy to the United Nations Friday called on the international community and the UN to maintain the overarching direction of seeking a political solution to the question of Syria.

Wu Haitao, China's deputy permanent representative to the UN, made the appeal at a UN General Assembly meeting on Syria at which a resolution demanding unhindered and unconditional humanitarian access throughout Syria was adopted.

"China is deeply concerned about the continuous escalation of conflict in Syria and worsening humanitarian situation in the relevant areas," said Wu.

"All efforts made should aim at facilitating the work of four tracks, namely a resumption of ceasefire, political negotiations, joint fight against terrorism and humanitarian assistance," he said, adding that the efforts should be Syrian-owned and Syrian-led.

Noting countries like Russia and the United States are actively engaging diplomatic efforts to ease the tension on the ground, Wu said "any measure taken by any party must respect the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Syria," and "aim at solving problems rather than complicating issues."

"Any unilateral attempt to exert pressure or to politicize humanitarian issue will only cause further turbulence in the situation rather than bringing the situation around," he added.

"On the question of Syria, China maintains the principles and purposes of the UN charter, uphold basic norms governing international relations and has played a constructive role in seeking a political settlement," said Wu.

"China is ready to join hands with the international community in a common search for a political settlement at an early date," he said.