China called for a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia on Friday, arguing that dialogue is the only way to reach a viable solution to the conflict, in a 12-point proposal.
The plan, released by China’s foreign ministry, also called for an end to Western sanctions against Russia, measures to ensure the safety of nuclear facilities, the establishment of humanitarian corridors for the evacuation of civilians, and actions to curb the export of guaranteed grain. after supply disruptions pushed prices up globally.
The first point stressed the importance of “respecting the sovereignty of all countries”, in reference to Ukraine. “Universally recognized international law, including the purposes and principles of the Charter of the United Nations, must be strictly observed,” reads the proposal circulated by Chinese diplomacy.
“The sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries must be effectively preserved,” he stressed.
China has said it is neutral in the conflict but maintains an “unrestricted” relationship with Russia and has refused to criticize the invasion of Ukraine. Beijing accused the West of provoking the conflict and “fanning the fire” by supplying Ukraine with defense weapons.
The Chinese government has called for an end to the “Cold War mentality” – a term Beijing often uses to criticize US foreign policy.
“The security of a region must not be achieved through the strengthening or expansion of military blocs,” the document states, in an implicit critique of NATO enlargement. The legitimate interests and security concerns of all countries must be taken seriously and appropriately addressed.
Beijing argued that all parties should contribute to “forging a balanced, effective and sustainable European security architecture”.
And he assured that “it is willing to play a constructive role”, but pointed out that “complex problems do not have simple solutions”.
On Thursday, China abstained from the vote when the UN General Assembly passed a non-binding resolution calling on Russia to end hostilities in Ukraine and withdraw its troops. China is one of 16 countries that voted against or abstained from almost all five previous resolutions on Ukraine.
“The fact that China has started talking about peace in Ukraine is not a bad thing,” Zelensky said.
The resolution, drafted by Ukraine in consultation with its allies, was approved by 141 votes in favour. Seven countries voted against and 32 abstained. The document sends a strong signal on the eve of the invasion’s first anniversary, leaving Russia more isolated than ever.
Beijing, however, considers the partnership with Moscow essential to oppose the liberal democratic order led by the United States.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed the importance of ties with Russia during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow this week.
China was also accused by the US of possible preparations to provide military support to Russia.
Before today’s proposal was released, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called it an important first step.
“I think the fact that China has started talking about peace in Ukraine is generally not a bad thing,” he said at a joint press conference with the Spanish prime minister. “It is important to us that all states are on our side, on the side of justice,” he added.
Chinese President Xi Jinping previously expressed “questions and concerns” about the conflict during a meeting with Putin, and openly opposed the use and threat of nuclear weapons after his Russian counterpart suggested the use of nuclear weapons in Ukraine.
Source: DN
