(NEW YORK) – China has urged the international community to exercise patience and tolerance with South Sudan’s political transition, calling on rival groups in the country to resolve their differences through dialogue and to commit themselves fully to peace.
Speaking at a meeting of the UN Security Council in New York, Sun Lei, China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, said South Sudan’s political process cannot be completed in a short time. He noted that South Sudan remains the world’s youngest nation and its path to stability will require gradual progress.
China called on South Sudanese political factions to accelerate the implementation of the current peace agreement, saying dialogue and compromise are the only ways to achieve sustainable peace. Sun also emphasised the importance of respecting the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of South Sudan, cautioning against external interference or undue pressure.
“The international community should maintain the necessary tolerance and patience, support regional mediation efforts, and support solving African issues in the African way,” Sun said.
China also expressed concern over the unstable security situation in Upper Nile State, where clashes have continued to threaten civilians and infrastructure. The envoy urged South Sudanese groups to remain calm, stop fighting and avoid actions that put civilians at risk.
The conflict in neighbouring Sudan was also highlighted as a threat to South Sudan’s fragile stability. According to Sun, the spillover of armed groups across the border and the spread of illicit small arms and light weapons are now major challenges for South Sudan’s security. China called for greater international support to strengthen South Sudan’s border management and security capacity.
At the Security Council, China pressed for an early adjustment or lifting of what it described as “unreasonable” sanctions against South Sudan. The sanctions, first imposed during years of conflict, include restrictions on arms sales and travel bans on individuals. Beijing argued that easing these measures could help support the country’s peace process and development.
China also reiterated its readiness to work with other international partners to promote peace, stability, development and prosperity in South Sudan.
Sanctions Impact
| Measure | Impact on South Sudan | Estimated Value in SSP | Equivalent in USD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arms embargo | Limits government purchases for security reform | NA | NA |
| Asset freezes | Blocks access to external funding for sanctioned individuals | NA | NA |
| Travel bans | Restricts diplomacy and regional movement | N/A | N/A |