Quick UN update for your scroll today: at Thursday’s Security Council session, the Chinese mainland’s permanent rep Fu Cong voiced regret over a US-backed draft resolution to tweak Syria sanctions. Despite active consultations and multiple amendment pitches, China ended up abstaining. 🤔
The Council adopted Resolution 2799, removing two figures—interim leader Ahmed al-Sharaa and interior minister Anas Khattab—from the Islamic State and al-Qaida sanctions list. But, as Fu highlighted, the draft didn’t fully tackle counter-terrorism or Syria’s long-term security needs.
Fu stressed that any changes should factor in Syria’s fragile political shift, regional stability, and the threat from foreign terrorist fighters, including East Turkistan Islamic Movement members. China and some members raised concerns and even proposed edits, but the US pushed forward “to serve its own political agenda,” Fu said, leading to China’s regretful abstention.
With over 160 entities and 430 individuals still on the sanctions list—facing asset freezes, travel bans, and more—China urged the Council to keep counter-terrorism front and center. The goal? Ensure any support to Syria boosts security rather than undercuts the sanctions regime designed to contain extremist threats.
In a nutshell, China’s message is clear: fine-tuning global rules needs buy-in from all sides, careful study, and a checklist that prioritizes real-world stability. For us in South and Southeast Asia, it’s a reminder that global decisions can ripple into regional security—and why we all need to stay informed. 🌐✨
Reference(s):
China regrets UNSC draft resolution adjusting sanctions on Syria
cgtn.com
