China calls for objective, neutral UN peacekeeping

Peacekeeping operations should always adhere to the principle of objectivity and neutrality, a Chinese envoy said Wednesday.

Li Baodong, the Chinese permanent representative to the United Nations, made the statement as he was speaking at a UN Security Council meeting on peacekeeping operations. The council met on Wednesday to hear briefings from UN Under-Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations Herve Ladsous and four force commanders of UN peacekeeping missions.

"Peacekeeping operations should comply strictly with the mandate of the Security Council, respect the will and choice of the people of host countries, and become promoters and mediators of the peace process and national reconciliation of host countries, " Li said.

He noted that peacekeeping operations, while carrying out their mandate, should pay great attention to the views of the parties concerned of host countries, respect local culture and have the trust and support of the people of host countries.

There are currently some 120,000 military, police and civilian personnel serving in 17 UN missions worldwide, the result of a global partnership that includes UN member states, the UN Secretariat, host countries, regional organizations and UN partners.

Li also emphasized on the importance of a strengthened mandate planning for integrated peacekeeping missions.

"Mandate of UN Peacekeeping operations have become increasingly complex and multidimensional," the envoy said. "In the course of carrying out their mandate, peacekeeping operations should have clear priorities."

He pointed out that, when formulating mandates for peacekeeping operations, the Security Council should take into full consideration the particular situation of host countries and take a pragmatic approach.

Moreover, the Chinese ambassador called on different components of peacekeeping operations to strengthen their coordination to form synergy.

"Military and civilian components of peacekeeping operations should have a clear division of labor and utilize their respective advantages with a view to achieving a seamless transition between peace keeping and peace building," he added.