China calls for efficient, durable solution to global refugee crisis

In his latest speech to address the current refugee crisis, a senior Chinese diplomat stressed that resources needed to be put to best use to increase efficiency, and it was important to adhere to humanitarian principles and avoid politicizing or abusing refugee protection mechanisms.

Ma Zhaoxu, head of the Chinese mission to the United Nations here, delivered a statement at the general debate of the 67th Session of the Executive Committee of the High Commissioner's Programme Tuesday, elaborating China's position and views on refugee issues.

"The refugee issue constitutes a humanitarian crisis, which tests the conscience of mankind and challenges the capacities of all countries for refugee protection," Ma said.

The Chinese diplomat noticed that developing countries had received the majority of refugees, putting their economic and social development under great strain.

He continued to point out that in some countries and regions, xenophobic sentiments against refugees were increasing, and the protection of the basic rights of refugees was precarious.

He added that states should uphold humanitarianism and strive to provide assistance, increase policy and financial support to address the issues, and effectively protect the basic rights and interests of refugees such as dignity, safety and development.

According to him, targeted solutions should be provided to tackle both the symptoms and root cause of problems, and all countries should settle disputes through dialogue in order to reduce the number of refugees and displaced persons caused by war and instability.

The diplomat also said there should be international cooperation to produce a holistic approach to the issues and implement the New York Declaration for Refugees and Migrants and the Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework at a faster pace.

"The UN refugee agency UNHCR should be allowed to effectively play its coordinating role, and comprehensive solutions should be formulated and implemented," he noted.

Ma added that as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and the largest developing country, China was committed to upholding world peace, promoting common development, pursuing political solutions to relevant hotspot issues, and making its own contribution to resolving the refugee issue.

"China is ready to continue to strengthen its cooperation with the UNHCR and endeavor with all other countries to promote the international protection of refugees, in order to achieve a comprehensive and durable solution to the global issue of refugees at an early date," he concluded. Endit