Mr. Chairman,

The adoption of the Protocol on Explosive Remnants of War (ERW) is another break-through related to the Convention and also an important contribution to the international arms control and humanitarian causes. The Protocol will help prevent and reduce the occurrence of the ERW and promote the clearance of the exiting and future ERW. The Protocol comprehensively addressed the humanitarian concerns inflicted by the ERW. The pressing task ahead is how to promote its early entry into force. China is positively studying ratifying the Protocol and stands ready to join efforts with other parties to promote its early entry in force.

We noted that some countries proposed initiating negotiation on technical retrofitting of certain specific types of munitions. In fact, this issue is closely related with the issue of ERW and has been fully discussed. The deliberations of the GGE to date demonstrated that technical retrofitting of certain specific types of munitions including submunitions is a very complicated issue involving technical difficulties, and does less help to solving humanitarian problems. To improve the reliability of these munitions is an effective solution to this problem. In this regard, a best practice concerned has been provided in the ERW protocol. Our first priority should be given to attracting more countries to accede to the Protocol and faithfully implement its provisions.

Mr. Chairman,

The issue of Mines Other Than Anti-Personnel Mines (MOTAPM) has been discussed for years. China has elaborated its concerns and positions for many times. We are in favor of seeking to address the issue of MOTAPM through appropriate channels and in a proper manner, on the basis of dealing with the humanitarian concerns and various countries' current MOTAPM situations in a balanced way, taking full account of countries' different capability in terms of economy and technology. The issue of MOTAPM has been discussed fully and comprehensively in the GGE, covering many aspects such as humanitarianism, military, technology and economy. The proposals became more concrete and the direction of our future work is clearer. The package solution proposed by China on this issue is realistic and feasible, taking into account the interests of all parties. Therefore, we expect that it will be further explored in a serious manner.

China is ready to join efforts with other parties to improve the universality, effectiveness and applicability of the Convention.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.