Friday—A Chinese envoy has called for intensified diplomatic efforts to achieve a political settlement of the ongoing Ukraine crisis, emphasizing that continued warfare only exacerbates the situation and increases casualties.
Geng Shuang, China’s deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, addressed a Security Council meeting on weapon supplies to Ukraine, stating that “continuing to supply weapons to the battlefield will only increase the risk of exacerbating the crisis and will not help to de-escalate the situation or end the fighting.”
He urged all parties to “intensify diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire and put an end to the fighting,” advocating for a responsible approach to promote an early political settlement and restore peace.
Geng highlighted that the Ukraine crisis has “complex historical and practical causes” and is essentially a significant security conflict in Europe. He clarified China’s position, noting that China is neither a creator of the crisis nor a participant in the conflict. “China has not provided lethal weapons or equipment to any parties involved in the conflict, nor has it done or will it do anything to profit from the crisis,” he said.
“China’s position on the Ukraine issue has always been consistent and clear. We are committed to being an advocate for peace and promoter of peace talks,” Geng stated. He expressed China’s support for the “timely convening of an international conference recognized by both Russia and Ukraine, with equal participation of all parties to discuss all peace options in a fair manner.”
He affirmed China’s readiness to “provide the necessary conditions for Russia and Ukraine to conduct negotiations,” committing to unremitting efforts to achieve an early political settlement of the crisis.
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China calls for intensified diplomatic efforts to end Ukraine crisis
cgtn.com
