Chinese envoy says maintaining peace momentum top priority for South Sudan

UNITED NATIONS -- Maintaining the peace momentum in South Sudan should be a top priority for the conflict-stricken country, said Chinese envoy on Tuesday.

Wu Haitao, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, told the Security Council that the implementation of the revitalized peace agreement, signed by South Sudanese parties last year, holds the key to the political resolution of the issue of the African country.

South Sudan descended into conflict in December 2013 after President Salva Kiir sacked his deputy Riek Machar, which led to fightings between soldiers loyal to their respective leaders.

The revitalized deal set in motion a peace process that includes a pre-transitional period and the formation of a unity government.

The international community, the Security Council in particular, should provide greater help focusing on facilitating the implementation of the revitalized peace agreement by all parties, Wu said.

In this regard, he said, the leadership of the government of South Sudan should be respected as parties in the country bear the primary responsibility for the implementation.

"The international community should enhance communication with all parties, the government in particular, listen carefully to their opinions and suggestions and provide necessary funding, material, and technical support in political and security fields in light of the needs of the country," he said.

As for the humanitarian situation in South Sudan, Wu urged the international community to help the country resolve issues like food security and resettlement of displaced persons.

Wu also called for more investment in agriculture, energy, infrastructure, education, healthcare and other fields to empower the South Sudanese people to rebuild their homes and pursue development.

Wu said China has been a consistent supporter of the peace process in South Sudan.

"To support the implementation of the revitalized agreement, China has provided a batch of food and material assistance to South Sudan, and active efforts are being made for their delivery," he said.

The senior official reaffirmed China's stance on working with the international community to help South Sudan achieve peace, stability and development.