Chinese envoy calls for combating sexual violence in conflicts

A Chinese envoy on Tuesday called on the international community to pay high attention to combating sexual violence in conflicts and protect women's legitimate rights.

Wu Haitao, China's deputy representative to the UN, made the appeal at a Security Council debate on women, peace and security.

Wu said the international community should combat the heinous actions by terrorist and extremist forces of violating women's rights and respond to terrorist threats by advancing counter-terrorism cooperation.

He highlighted the need to promote political settlement of regional hotspot issues to create a favorable environment for protection of women's rights.

"In all stages in peace process, it is necessary to ensure the full participation of women in decision making so that they can leverage their unique advantages and become a positive force in peace making," said Wu.

Wu also called on the international community to help countries concerned in carrying out post-conflict reconstruction to support them in promoting economic and social development and to better protect women's rights and interests.

"China is willing to work with the rest of the international community to continue to push for the implementation of the goals in women, peace and security and making tireless efforts for the further progress of global women' s cause," he said. Enditem