A Chinese envoy on Tuesday asked the international community to keep in mind Syria's counterterrorism needs in seeking a solution to the problems in the northwest of the country.

"The international community should keep in mind the overall counterterrorism needs of Syria as well as its territorial integrity and its future in the pursuit of a comprehensive and long-term solution to the issues of terrorism and humanitarian matters in the northwest," said Yao Shaojun, minister counselor and political coordinator of China's permanent mission to the United Nations.

In recent months, terrorist groups have sought to expand their spheres of influence by launching frequent attacks, resulting in civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. Those activities jeopardized humanitarian relief efforts and undermined the regional security situation, Yao told the Security Council.

The humanitarian situation in northwestern Syria cannot be separated from the issue of counterterrorism. China supports efforts to adopt uniform standards and fight terrorist groups in accordance with relevant Security Council resolutions and international law, he said.

China is also concerned over the negative impact of the economic sanctions on the livelihood of the Syrian people, he said.

In order to fundamentally alleviate the humanitarian situation in Syria, it is necessary to continue to advance the political process, said Yao.