Mr. President,

China supports the inclusion of the issue of Israeli nuclear capabilities on the agenda of the GC. The prolonged Palestinian-Israeli conflict has intensified the concerns of the international community and countries in the region over the Israeli nuclear issue. This issue should be given greater attention within the framework of NPT and IAEA, where serious discussions should be held.

China has consistently and actively supported the efforts of Middle Eastern countries to promote the establishment of a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction. We call on relevant regional countries and nuclear-weapon states to earnestly assume their due responsibilities and participate in the process of establishing a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction within the UN framework. China is willing to work with the international community to contribute to the early realization of a Middle East zone free of nuclear weapons and other weapons of mass destruction and to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region.

Mr. President,

Thank you, Mr. President.