Authorization of the deployment of up to 26,000 joint peacekeepers in Darfur by a unanimous vote at the UN Security Council on Tuesday points to the wisdom and patience displayed by the international community in finding a solution to the complicated crisis.

Underlying Resolution 1769 is the consensus by members of the Security Council that the deployment of such a force will be of significance to the continuation of the political process leading to final peace in the region.

The resolution should be viewed as an unprecedented UN peacekeeping mission rather than the exertion of pressure on the Sudanese government. The sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country must be respected in carrying out the mission.

Cooperation from the Sudanese government is vital to the success of the mission and to the final settlement of conflicts in the region.

The unconditional acceptance of the joint peacekeeping force by the Sudanese government has shown its earnestness and flexibility in seeking a solution to the crisis.

The resolution is just the beginning of cooperation between the United Nations, the African Union and the Sudanese government. The dialogue between the three parties and the agreement reached between them on the deployment of the joint force laid the foundation for adoption of the resolution.

In this respect, we see more possibilities and opportunities for the three parties to further push the political process for final settlement of the crisis.

The new move is just an initial step toward final solution. There will never be lasting peace in the region unless the root cause of the conflict is eradicated.

Darfur is a region plagued by adverse natural conditions. Different ethnic groups fight for the limited resources to survive.

Undoubtedly it is far from enough to stop the conflicts only. A process involving all ethnic groups in the region needs to be pushed further for a lasting peace. At the same time, humanitarian aid is necessary to meet the needs of the people. Economic development and social progress also needs to be boosted to root out the very cause for the region's crisis.

Dialogue is the most effective approach to handling the issue. Sanctions and political pressure can only make the situation worse and more complicated. The adoption of the resolution speaks volumes.

(China Daily August 2, 2007)