The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has passed a resolution demanding the withdrawal of Russian military and unauthorized personnel from Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant.
The resolution was adopted on Thursday with 99 votes in favor, nine against, and 60 abstentions, reflecting global concerns over the safety of nuclear facilities amid the ongoing conflict.
China, along with Brazil, India, and South Africa, abstained from the vote, emphasizing its commitment to an independent and balanced approach to the crisis.
Following the vote, Fu Cong, China’s permanent representative to the United Nations, reaffirmed China’s stance on seeking a political resolution. He stressed China’s opposition to armed attacks on nuclear power plants and urged all parties to exercise restraint.
“China believes that a ceasefire and seeking a political solution serve the interests of all parties,” Fu stated. “Our immediate focus should be on preventing escalation and creating conditions conducive to direct dialogue and negotiations.”
Fu expressed disappointment that the resolution did not prioritize dialogue and negotiation or address fundamental European security concerns. He explained that this omission was a key reason for China’s decision to abstain.
China has consistently advocated for respect of national sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the principles enshrined in the UN Charter in resolving the Ukraine issue, Fu added. He emphasized that China has no self-interest in the conflict and intends to continue playing a constructive role in promoting a political settlement.
As tensions continue, China’s call for a diplomatic resolution highlights the complexities of international responses to the conflict and underscores the importance of dialogue in ensuring regional stability.
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China abstains from UNGA vote on Ukrainian nuclear facilities
cgtn.com
