By Sabri Dibaco
China has called for the lifting or timely adjustment of sanctions on South Sudan. It urged the international community to support the country through dialogue, cooperation, and development rather than punitive measures.
Speaking at the United Nations Security Council, China’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Fu Cong, said international engagement with South Sudan should respect the country’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
Fu said the international community should play a more constructive role in supporting peace and stability while helping South Sudan address its political, economic, and humanitarian challenges.
“The international community should, on the basis of respecting South Sudan’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, play a more constructive role in promoting peace and stability and assisting the South Sudanese people,” Fu said.
He also urged the international community to avoid undue interference and excessive pressure, saying international measures should help create conditions for South Sudan to pursue peace and development.
China’s position comes as South Sudan continues to push for a review and removal of international sanctions, particularly the arms embargo.
Fu’s call for the adjustment or lifting of sanctions adds weight to South Sudan’s long-standing appeal for the international community to reconsider restrictive measures as the country works to consolidate peace, strengthen state institutions, and move toward democratic elections.
China said international partners should focus on creating a conducive environment for peace, stability, and development in South Sudan rather than measures that could further complicate the country’s recovery.
The government has argued that the restrictions can undermine efforts to strengthen national security institutions and address ongoing security challenges.
South Sudan has faced prolonged political and security instability since gaining independence from Sudan in 2011.
The conflict that erupted in December 2013 caused widespread displacement and a severe humanitarian crisis.
A 2018 peace agreement brought President Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar into a transitional government. However, implementation of key provisions has been repeatedly delayed, including security arrangements, constitutional reforms, and preparations for elections.
The United Nations, regional organisations and international partners continue to support South Sudan’s peace process and humanitarian response.
China has consistently advocated political solutions to conflicts in Africa and has emphasised respect for national sovereignty and African-led approaches to resolving political and security challenges.
The United Nations Security Council imposed an arms embargo on South Sudan on 13 July 2018 through Resolution 2428, prohibiting the supply, sale, or transfer of arms and related military equipment to the country.
The measure also restricts related military training and technical and financial assistance, with exemptions for certain activities.