On the 11th, Sun Lei, the Deputy Permanent Representative of China to the United Nations, spoke during the Security Council's consideration of the South Sudan issue, urging all parties to steadily advance the political transition. Sun Lei said that the current security situation in South Sudan is worrying, with local conflicts and exchanges of fire occurring from time to time. China urges all parties to focus on the overall situation of national peace and stability, effectively cease hostile actions, protect civilians and humanitarian workers, especially prevent the cycle of violence, and avoid the situation escalating out of control. China calls on all parties to resolve differences through inclusive dialogue and encourages stronger unity and peaceful coexistence among different tribes. The international community should do more work to persuade and promote stability, and avoid exacerbating the situation. China calls on all parties to follow the main line of implementing the revitalization agreement, strive to transcend political differences, find the greatest common denominator, and steadily promote political transition. Sun Lei stated that China firmly believes that the key to solving African problems lies in Africa's hands. China supports close coordination between the United Nations and regional organizations, increases mediation efforts, innovates mediation models, and promotes the return of all parties to political dialogue. Any solution should uphold South Sudan's sovereignty and leadership, fully respecting the concerns of the parties involved. China supports the Security Council in responding to the calls of African countries and promptly adjusting or lifting sanctions against South Sudan. Sun Lei pointed out that South Sudan has a single industrial structure and a relatively weak economic foundation. Due to the spillover effects of the conflict in Sudan and the flooding during the rainy season, the number of displaced people continues to increase, and the humanitarian situation is becoming increasingly severe. China calls on the international community to increase investment, treat the symptoms with humanitarian aid, and address the root causes with development cooperation, to help stabilize the economy and people's livelihoods, improve public welfare, and support South Sudan to embark on a path of independent and sustainable development. South Sudan gained independence in 2011. Since the end of 2013, the power dispute between South Sudanese President Kiir and then Vice President Mashal has sparked nationwide armed conflicts. In September 2018, the conflicting parties in South Sudan signed a revitalization agreement, opening a window of opportunity for achieving sustainable peace and stability in South Sudan. But since early March this year, clashes between government forces and opposition armed groups have erupted in Upper Nile State, sparking concerns about the deteriorating political and security situation in South Sudan. (New Society)