UNITED NATIONS, Feb. 20 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese UN envoy has urged the international community to increase humanitarian aid and economic support to Burundi.
During a Security Council meeting on the eastern African country Tuesday, Wu Haitao, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, said recent years have seen a wave of returning Burundian refugees and the flow might peak in 2019.
In this context, Wu expressed his hope that the international community could timely provide necessary aid to help the Burundian government to accommodate the returnees.
On the Burundian political process, Wu noted progress has made with the formulation of a roadmap in preparation for the 2020 elections and the establishment of a national independent electoral commission.
He called on the international community to acknowledge the efforts made by the Burundian government in maintaining peace and stability in the country, and to respect the sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity of Burundi.
The international community should view the current situation in Burundi comprehensively, fairly and objectively, and play a constructive role in maintaining the long-term stability and development of the country, he appealed.
Moreover, he noted the Burundian government has repeatedly said the situation in the country does not pose a threat to the regional peace and security and thus Burundi should not remain on the agenda of the Security Council.
In this regard, Wu said the Security Council should pay attention to the view of Burundi and make adjustment in accordance with the latest developments.
Closing his remarks, the Chinese envoy said as a long-standing supporter of Burundi's peace process, China stands ready to continue playing a constructive role in achieving peace and stability as well as sustainable development in the country.
