China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi: China a “Force for Peace” Despite Ties with Russia Amid Ukraine Invasion
China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, has emphasized China’s commitment to being a “force for peace” in the world, even as it strengthens its ties with Russia amidst Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. Speaking at a press conference in Beijing, Wang stated that China would persist in promoting peace, stability, and progress globally.
China’s Relationship with Russia
Wang was questioned about China’s relationship with Russia, which began its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Despite the ongoing conflict, the two countries have deepened their partnership. Chinese President Xi Jinping hailed a “new era” of cooperation during his visit to Moscow last year, and Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Beijing shortly before the invasion. Wang described the closer ties between Beijing and Moscow as a “strategic choice” and highlighted that bilateral trade reached a record $240 billion in 2023. He portrayed this relationship as a “new paradigm” in relations between major powers and stressed that major countries should avoid conflict and prevent the return of the Cold War.
China’s Neutral Stance on Ukraine
China has positioned itself as a neutral party in the Ukraine war. On the first anniversary of the conflict, China released a 12-point peace plan calling for a ceasefire and talks between the conflicting parties. Wang reiterated China’s objective and impartial position on Ukraine and called for peace talks, emphasizing that prolonged conflict could lead to a bigger crisis. He mentioned that China’s peace envoy, Li Hui, was currently in the region.
China’s Stance on Gaza Conflict
During the press conference, Wang also addressed the conflict in Gaza. He referred to Israel’s five-month-long war in Gaza as a “tragedy for humanity and a disgrace for civilization.” Wang criticized the world’s apparent inability to stop the bloodshed and urged an immediate ceasefire and peace talks. He called for the release of all detainees and emphasized that the calamity in Gaza should serve as a wakeup call for the world. Wang reiterated China’s support for a two-state solution and Palestine’s full membership in the United Nations.
China’s Relationship with the United States
Wang expressed optimism about China’s relationship with the United States, despite recent tensions. He acknowledged that the two countries had faced challenges but emphasized the importance of stable and consistent relations based on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and win-win cooperation. Wang criticized the “bewildering level of unfathomable absurdity” of US sanctions and highlighted the upcoming 45th anniversary of formal bilateral ties between China and the US.
China’s Claims in the South China Sea
Wang also addressed China’s claims in the disputed South China Sea. He stated that China resolutely opposes acts of hegemony and bullying and will strongly uphold national sovereignty, security, and development interests. The Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, and Vietnam also claim parts of the South China Sea, leading to ongoing tensions in the region.
Conclusion
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s press conference covered a wide range of topics, highlighting China’s commitment to being a force for peace in the world. Despite its deepening ties with Russia amidst the Ukraine invasion, China maintains a neutral stance on the conflict and calls for peace talks. Wang also expressed concern over the Gaza conflict and emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire. Additionally, he addressed China’s relationship with the United States, emphasizing the importance of stable and consistent relations based on mutual respect. Lastly, Wang reiterated China’s claims in the disputed South China Sea and its opposition to acts of hegemony and bullying.
