In a significant diplomatic engagement, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with his Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha in Munich, Germany, on Saturday. The meeting, held on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, underscored China's unwavering commitment to fostering peace and dialogue amidst the ongoing Ukraine crisis.
Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China's Central Committee, highlighted the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between China and Ukraine, established in 2011. He emphasized that despite challenging global circumstances, China remains Ukraine's largest trading partner, showcasing the strong potential for continued cooperation between the two nations.
Expressing China's view of Ukraine as both a friend and partner, Wang Yi conveyed China's willingness to collaborate with Ukraine to overcome current challenges and further develop bilateral ties. He also expressed hope that Ukraine would continue to ensure the safety of Chinese institutions and citizens within its borders.
Addressing the ongoing crisis, Wang Yi reiterated China's firm stance on promoting peace and dialogue. He referenced the principles laid out by Chinese premier Xi Jinping, describing them as objective, impartial, and pragmatic in guiding the resolution process. Wang affirmed that China will remain committed to these principles, playing a constructive role in the political settlement of the crisis and the pursuit of lasting peace.
Furthermore, Wang Yi highlighted China's support for all efforts focused on achieving peace and advocated for a fair, lasting, and binding peace agreement accepted by all parties involved. He also mentioned the continuation of the \"Friends of Peace\" platform, led by China and other Global South countries, aimed at fostering international consensus on peace and dialogue.
Andrii Sybiha, representing Ukraine, acknowledged the strong bilateral ties and friendly relations between the peoples of Ukraine and China. He reaffirmed Ukraine's adherence to the one-China principle and its readiness to strengthen exchanges and deepen its strategic partnership with China. Sybiha assured that Ukraine would continue to protect Chinese institutions and citizens.
Sybiha also expressed Ukraine's respect for China's global influence and its appreciation for China's balanced approach to international issues. He called on China to play a key role in achieving comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in the region.
Reference(s):
China calls for fair, lasting peace agreement for Ukraine crisis
cgtn.com