Thank you, Acting Under-Secretary-General Zouev. I thank you and the two co-facilitators for your briefings and remarks.

Over the past two decades since its adoption, the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy has played a pivotal role in preventing and combating terrorism, strengthening counter-terrorism capacity-building of Member States, and enhancing international counter-terrorism cooperation. China highly commends the dedicated efforts of UNOCT, CTED, and other relevant UN entities in this regard, and supports the United Nations in continuing to play its central, coordinating role.

At present, terrorism is increasingly intertwined with armed conflict, transnational organized crime, social inequality, and the misuse of emerging technologies. These interlocking challenges have cast a long shadow over international peace and security.

In this context, the ninth review of the Strategy offers us not only a moment to take stock, but also an opportunity to enhance exchanges and cooperation, so as to form greater synergy in our collective fight against terrorism. We must firmly reject selective approaches and double standards, and eliminate the breeding ground for terrorism by reducing conflicts and poverty and respecting the diversity of civilizations.

On Afghanistan, we urge the Afghan Government to take concrete measures, so that the country will not once again become a hub for terrorist organizations.

On Syria, the transitional government should resolutely combat all Council-listed terrorist organizations such as ISIS and the ETIM, and prevent terrorists from using the Syrian territories to threaten other countries' security.

And in light of the incessant terrorist attacks carried out by BLA and its Majeed Brigade in Pakistan, the Security Council should promptly include them in the 1267 sanctions list.

In addition, we call on the international community to deepen cooperation with African countries and regional organizations such as the African Union, to help bolster the counter-terrorism capacity of the continent.

Dear Colleagues,

The Chinese Government attaches great importance to the implementation of the Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. We have made sustained efforts to improve our legal framework, step up our fight against terrorist threats, and ensure that human rights are protected in accordance with law in our counter-terrorism efforts. 

Internationally, China has actively conducted bilateral and multilateral cooperation, and has supported UNOCT and CTED's projects in Africa and Central Asia through the China-UN Peace and Development Fund.

China stands ready to engage constructively in the ninth review of the Strategy, and work with all parties to make greater contributions to a world of lasting peace and universal security.

Thank you.