China is resolutely opposed to setting a time limit for the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reform and forcing a voting on proposals where major division still exists, reiterated Wang Guangya, Chinese Ambassador to the United Nations on July 11, 2005.

Wang made the remarks at the UN General Assembly's debate on the reform of UNSC.

Wang reiterated China's consistent and clear-cut stand on the UNSC reform:

First, the reform of the Security Council is multifaceted covering such important issues as enlarging the Council's membership, increasing efficiency and improving working methods. The reform should be conducive to enhancing the authority and efficiency of the Council.

Second, increasing the representation of developing countries should be given priority. Developing countries, who account for more than two thirds of the UN membership, are seriously under-represented on the Security Council. China firmly supports increasing representation of African countries in the UNSC and will never change such a position.

Third, the small and medium-sized countries in particular, should be given more opportunities to enter the Council to participate in its decision making process.

Fourth, the principle of geographic balance should be adhered to, with representation of different cultures and civilizations taken into consideration.

Wang noted that decision on UNSC reform must be made by all the member states, and must be based upon the will of an overwhelming majority of members, rather than addressing the concerns of only a small number of counties. Only the resolutions adopted through the broadest negotiation and consensus can win the most universal trust and support and conform to the common and long-term interests of all the member states.

Presently no expansion plan that is able to meet all parties' concerns, or wins universal support has been found yet. Under such a situation, the member states need more time to continue dialogue, to negotiate sufficiently and seek compromise. Most counties do not wish to see a forced voting on plans that lack wide consensus. Forced voting on an immature plan will sure lead to divisions among member states and weaken the authority and role of the UN, which is against the original intention of the UNSC reform. China is resolutely opposed to setting a time limit for the UNSC reform, and opposed to forcing a voting on any plan in which major differences still exist.

By People's Daily Online