China has cautioned against the misuse of sanctions as a political tool after the UN Security Council renewed its sanctions regime on Sudan for another year.
Speaking after the vote on Friday, Sun Lei, China’s deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, stressed that sanctions are a “means, not an end,” and must not be exploited for interference or external pressure.
Sun underlined that the top priority should be achieving a ceasefire, easing humanitarian suffering, and advancing the political process in Sudan. He urged the international community to respect Sudan’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, while fully supporting mediation efforts led by the UN and the African Union.
While reaffirming China’s support, Sun noted that Beijing voted in favour of the resolution to help curb arms flows into Darfur, prevent escalation of violence, and minimise harm to civilians. He emphasised that member states must faithfully implement the resolution to ensure its effectiveness.
Sun also drew attention to the worsening humanitarian crisis, with rising civilian casualties, and called for urgent global action to restore peace and stability in Sudan.
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