Mr. Chair,

At present, the international situation remains turbulent, and humanitarian crises are occurring frequently around the world. Since the beginning of this year, under the leadership of High Commissioner Salih and the new senior management team, UNHCR has carried out effective work in areas such as emergency assistance and response, exploring durable solutions to refugee issues, building a global network of partnerships, and implementing organizational restructuring. High Commissioner Salih has put forward the “50by35” vision, which focuses on supporting refugees’ self-reliance and expanding durable solutions, demonstrating a bold ambition to reform and improve global refugee governance. China appreciates these efforts.

In light of the severe and complex challenges facing the world today, Chinese President Xi Jinping put forward the Global Governance Initiative, offering a Chinese solution to address the pressing challenges of our time, including the refugee issue. In line with the core principles of the Global Governance Initiative, China would like to share the following four suggestions regarding global refugee governance and the work of UNHCR:

First, we shall practice multilateralism and uphold the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities. Addressing the refugee issue is a systemic undertaking. China supports the UNHCR in playing its central role, working together with governments, international organizations, and the private sector to strengthen resource coordination in the spirit of solidarity and cooperation. Developing countries have long devoted tremendous human and material resources to coping with refugee crisis. Low- and middle-income countries host more than 70 percent of the world’s refugees. Developing countries shoulder responsibilities that are disproportionate to their level of economic and social development, and their voice and representation in the global refugee governance system should be further enhanced. Developed countries should fully deliver on aid commitments, and those bearing primary responsibility for refugee crisis should expand aid even further and provide greater support to refugees and hosting countries. 

Second, we shall advocate a people-centered approach and strive to find lasting solutions. This year marks the 75th anniversary of the signing of the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees. All States Parties should fulfill their legal obligations, increase their assistance, and effectively safeguard the basic rights and interests of refugees. At the same time, we shall clearly recognize that humanitarian assistance is only a temporary measure; resolving the refugee crisis ultimately requires addressing security and development issues to achieve lasting peace and common prosperity. We shall advocate for the resolution of disputes through dialogue and consultation, actively promote ceasefires and an end to hostilities, and reduce the refugee flows caused by conflict. A universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization should also be promoted to ensure that the gains of development benefit all countries fairly, so as to help the countries of origin enhance their self-reliance development capacity and create conditions for the voluntary, safe and sustainable return of refugees.

Third, we shall stay committed to real results and take good use of new technologies. We encourage the UNHCR to seize the opportunities presented by the new round of technological revolution, actively promote and apply emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data, and keep pace with the times to improve the efficiency in addressing the refugee crisis. The UNHCR is also encouraged to further diversify procurement channels, make every effort to reduce costs, and ensure that every penny is spent where it is most needed. We should also assist developing countries in strengthening their capacity, strive to bridge the digital divide, and fully leverage the role of emerging technologies in promoting sustainable development. This will help developing countries enhance their capabilities in disaster risk management and climate change response, thereby reducing cross-border displacement caused by climate and environmental factors.

Fourth, we shall uphold the rule of law and safeguard the credibility of the international refugee protection system. Non-politicization is a fundamental principle of the international humanitarian cause and an important foundation for ensuring the sound development of international refugee protection. Relevant parties must uphold impartiality and neutrality, strictly adhere to the guiding principles of UN humanitarian assistance, guarantee humanitarian access in a manner that respects sovereignty, and prevent the politicization and misuse of refugee protection mechanisms as shields for separatists and terrorists or as tools for certain countries to interfere in the internal affairs of others, thereby effectively safeguarding the credibility of the international refugee protection system.

Mr. Chair,

This year marks the beginning of China’s “15th Five-Year Plan.” The “15th Five-Year Plan” serves not only as a blueprint for China’s own development but also as a roadmap for cooperation with the world. As a defender of the international order, a promoter of peace and stability, and a contributor to global governance solutions, China will continue to vigorously promote peace talks on hot-spot issues and play a constructive role in advancing political solutions; China will continue to support the development of the Global South, and share opportunities and build prosperity together with countries around the world; China will continue to provide financial and project assistance to UNHCR to the best of its ability, support the agency’s work through concrete actions, and inject greater certainty and positive energy into global refugee governance and humanitarian causes.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.