China has opposed the International Criminal Courtโs (ICC) attempt to issue an arrest warrant for Myanmarโs junta leader, Min Aung Hlaing, over allegations of crimes against humanity against the Rohingya Muslims. Speaking at a press briefing on November 28 in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning asserted that the ICC lacks authority to prosecute non-signatory nations like Myanmar unless the case is referred by the United Nations Security Council.
Responding to AFPโs query about Chinaโs position on the ICC prosecutorโs recent application for an arrest warrant against junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, Mao noted the complexity of the Rakhine crisis, which involves historical, ethnic, and religious dimensions. She stated, โThe Rakhine State issue has a very complex historical, ethnic, and religious background and requires comprehensive measures and a prudent solution. As a friendly neighbor of Myanmar, China is closely following the development of the situation in Rakhine State and is willing to work with the international community to play a constructive role in stabilizing and cooling the situation.โ
Mao also stressed Chinaโs view that the ICC must operate fairly and objectively, adhering to the principles of complementary jurisdiction and international cooperation. โThe International Criminal Court should uphold an objective and fair position, strictly abide by the principles of complementary jurisdiction and international cooperation, exercise its powers prudently in accordance with the law, and interpret and apply the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court and general international law in good faith,โ she said.
Citing the Rome Statute, Mao emphasized that unless referred by the Security Council, the ICC has no jurisdiction over crimes committed by nationals of non-signatory states or on the territory of non-signatory states, which includes Myanmar.
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