New York (United Nations), 1 November 2026 (SPS) – China has explained its abstention from the vote on the US-drafted Security Council resolution on the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), describing the text as unbalanced and insufficiently attentive to the concerns of Council members.
Speaking during Friday's Security Council session in New York, China's representative criticised the drafting process, saying the United States had pushed for a vote without first securing a minimum level of consensus among Council members.
China noted that MINURSO had faithfully implemented its mandate over the years, playing an important role in maintaining stability, preventing escalation and protecting civilians. It stressed the need to build on previous Security Council resolutions.
The Chinese representative criticised the draft for failing to follow established practices, adequately address the concerns of all parties and avoid pressuring one side to accept a predetermined negotiating outcome.
China also regretted the lack of sufficient time for in-depth consultations and the decision to proceed with the vote despite substantial disagreements, warning that such an approach undermines Council unity and efforts towards a genuine political settlement.
Reaffirming its position, China stressed that the renewal of UN missions should not be used as an instrument of political pressure. It underscored the central role of the United Nations, dialogue and negotiations in resolving the conflict, while reaffirming the Sahrawi people's right to self-determination in accordance with the UN Charter.
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