China Gives Full Backing to Russia's Actions in Syria

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying on Dec. 4 responded to questions about Russian President Putin's remarks the day before at his state of the nation address, and Russia's role in Syria:

"China's position is consistent and clear. We oppose all forms of terrorism and the application of double standards on the issue of counter-terrorism. We believe that the international community should conduct counter-terrorism cooperation following the purposes and principles of the UN Charter as well as other well-recognized basic norms guiding international relations. All parties should step up coordination and communication, narrow differences, and adopt comprehensive measures so as to forge synergy in combating terrorism. The international community should earnestly implement relevant counter-terrorism resolutions of the UN Security Council and carry out more effective cooperation in fields like cutting off terrorist financing.

"Leaders of China and Russia have reached major consensus on further aligning the Silk Road Economic Belt and the Eurasian Economic Union," she added.

Then in response to a second question, as to whether or not China was opposed to Russia's role in Syria, since it was not done via the UN, Hua Chunying was emphatic:

"As for Russia's counter-terrorism campaign in Syria, China noted that it was launched at the Syrian government's request and was meant to deliver a blow to terrorist forces inside Syria. The Chinese side always understands and supports counter-terrorism actions that are in line with international law and with the consent of the government concerned ... At the same time, China believes that relevant parties should earnestly implement relevant counter-terrorism resolutions of the UN Security Council and give full play to the UN's leading role. Actually, President Putin also called for the establishment of a united front against terrorism under the aegis of the UN in his state of the nation address."