(October 28, 2005, New York)

Mr. Chairman,

The Chinese delegation voted for the resolution entitled "Implementation of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-personnel Mines and on their Destruction" (L.56). This is the first time China voted in favor of this resolution.

China understands and attaches importance to the humanitarian concerns of the international community caused by anti-personnel landmines (APL). The Ottawa Convention is an important international effort to resolve these concerns. China endorses the humanitarian purposes and objectives of the Convention. Though not a party to the Convention, China is willing to keep contacts and exchanges with its States Parties.

China has always been deeply concerned about civilian casualties caused by inappropriate use of the APL, and has been making unremitting efforts, in cooperation with the international community, to address the humanitarian concerns caused by APL. In recent years, China has been engaged in international de-mining cooperation and assistance in various ways. We will continue to provide assistance to the mine-affected countries within our capacity in future.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.