The resolution, according to the official Syrian agency SANA, was supported by 14 of the 15 members of the Council, while China abstained from voting without exercising its right of veto.

The text, adopted under Chapter VII of the United Nations’ charter, reaffirms the Council’s strong commitment to respect the sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity and national unity of Syria, as well as its continued support for the Syrian people.

It also expresses the agency’s determination to promote reconstruction, stability and long-term economic development in the Arab country.

The document welcomes the commitments made by the Syrian government to facilitate humanitarian access and combat terrorism, while urging Damascus to take decisive action to address the situation of foreign fighters, protect human rights, to combat drug trafficking, promote transitional justice, eliminate remaining chemical weapons and foster an inclusive political process.

The resolution was tabled days before President al-Shara’s planned visit to the White House, where he will meet with US President Donald Trump, in what will be the first visit of a Syrian head of state to Washington in more than eight decades.

The permanent representative of Beijing to the UN, Fu Jun, explained that the text “does not fully comply with the principles that China considers essential to ensure stability in Syria and combat terrorism”.

The text also highlighted the commitment to work with the international community to achieve the aspirations of the Syrian people for peace, development, reconstruction and consolidation of a new nation.

abo/mem/fm