China and Brazil convened a meeting to mediate peace between Russia and Ukraine during the UN General Assembly, advocating for a fair discussion of proposals in the peace process. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi stressed partnership and opposed using the crisis to justify sanctions. The meeting was joined by several nations, though neither the US nor the EU participated, leading to criticisms from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding the effectiveness of their approach.
On the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, China and Brazil engaged in discussions aimed at mediating peace between Russia and Ukraine, a diplomatic endeavor characterized by overarching objectives that lack precise details. During the meeting, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed optimism regarding the prospect of an international peace conference. He emphasized the necessity of a “fair discussion” regarding all proposals and voiced opposition to using the ongoing crisis as a rationale for imposing sanctions, ostensibly targeting the United States’ actions. According to Wang, “We want to be partners to Russia and Ukraine as they work towards peace.” He further cautioned against the resurgence of a Cold War mentality. The dialogue included representatives from several nations, such as Algeria, Bolivia, Colombia, Egypt, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Mexico, South Africa, Turkey, and Zambia, although neither the United States nor the European Union participated in the talks. Observers from France, Hungary, and Switzerland were present. Criticism arose from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who contended that the proposal offered by Brazil and China could not effectively compel peace, asserting that “Russia can only be forced into peace, and that is exactly what is needed.”
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has drawn global attention, leading multiple nations to seek ways to mediate and promote peace. Countries like China and Brazil have positioned themselves as potential mediators, emphasizing non-alignment and a desire for dialogue. This context arises amid geopolitical tensions, particularly influenced by the involvement of Western nations, including the United States and the European Union, which have imposed sanctions on Russia. The meeting at the United Nations underscores the complexity and diverse perspectives surrounding the peace process in Ukraine.
In summary, China and Brazil’s meeting at the UN represents an effort to position themselves as mediators in the Russia-Ukraine conflict through an international peace conference. While the participants expressed intent for dialogue and partnership, the absence of key stakeholders such as the US and the EU, alongside critiques from Ukrainian leadership, underscores the challenges facing this diplomatic initiative. The differing perspectives on the conflict indicate that achieving a lasting and equitable resolution remains a formidable task.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
