Zhang Jun, China’s permanent representative to the UN, issued a joint statement on behalf of China and thirty other nations demanding an end to all “unilateral coercive measures,” saying they violate human rights, which is intolerable. He called “a global response based on unity, solidarity and international cooperation” to address the COVID-19 pandemic as it continues to have a severe impact on economic and social development in all countries, especially developing countries, according to People’s Daily.
He continued: Sanctions have “severely hindered” the development, and the anti-epidemic efforts of targeted countries. They deprive those affected of the opportunity to fully realize their human rights, and impede their well-being and social welfare. Such coercive measures “have no basis in law,” the ambassador underscored. States should avoid imposing unilateral sanctions that are not in accordance with international law or the UN Charter. “The current circumstance calls for solidarity and unity rather than confrontation and division to address the global challenge and promote and protect human rights for all,” Zhang said.
