UNITED NATIONS, May 12 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Tuesday called for efforts to achieve political stability in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) as soon as possible.

For some time, the political situation in BiH has remained volatile. Constant disputes between different ethnic groups and political parties have severely affected the country's internal stability and economic development agenda, said Sun Lei, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations.

"It is important to achieve political stability as soon as possible," he told the Security Council.

Sun said that BiH will hold general elections this year, which will determine the trajectory of both the country and the wider Balkan region for the foreseeable future.

China hopes that the country's two political entities, three constituent peoples and all political parties will maintain calm and restraint, show mutual tolerance, and foster a stable and enabling political atmosphere to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the elections, Sun said.

Over the past few years, against the backdrop of political unrest, BiH has been confronted with severe challenges, including slow economic growth, escalating inflation and labor outflow. China hopes that all parties will prioritize the interests of the entire population, forge synergy in governance, and create a favorable environment for rapid economic development and for the people to live secure and happy lives, said Sun.

China also calls for increased international support and assistance to help the country expand investment cooperation in areas that secure people's livelihoods, thereby advancing implementation of the sustainable development agenda, he added.

Sun said that China's position on the issue of BiH is consistent and clear. China respects BiH's sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, as well as the independent choice of its people regarding the country's future. China remains committed to developing friendly relations with all ethnic groups in BiH, supporting its ethnic reconciliation process, and playing a constructive role in maintaining peace and stability in the country and tranquility in the wider region, he said.