New York, 16 March 2024 (TDI): Deputy Permanent Representative of China to the United Nations, Ambassador Geng Shuang, on Friday called on all parties to the Ukrainian crisis to state peace talks early, during the UN Security Council briefing on Ukraine.
The Ambassador underscored that it has been more than two years since the breakout of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict and the total escalation of the Ukraine crisis. These two years have witnessed too much misery and too many human tragedies unfolding.
Furthermore, he added that in this very chamber, we have also heard too many expressions of grief, pain, appeals, persuasion, and heated debate. With the fighting still ongoing, the risk of spillover continues to emerge.
He emphasized that one day earlier for peace talks means one day sooner for peace, one more day of conflict brings one more element of risk to the world. Therefore, peace is a matter of utmost urgency and public expectation.
Besides, the Ambassador, on the question of Ukraine, expressed that China has always maintained that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected, the purposes and principles of the UN Charter be upheld.
Also, the legitimate security concerns of all countries be taken seriously, and all efforts conducive to a political resolution of the crisis be supported.
Call for early peace talks
The Ambassador reiterated the call for all parties to the conflict to demonstrate political will, move towards each other, build consensus, cease fighting, and start peace talks at an early date.
He emphasized that we call the international community to step up its diplomatic efforts to create conditions for de-escalation of the situation and to achieve a political settlement.
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China has always maintained an objective and impartial position and has participated in promoting peace talks.
We support the holding in due course of an international peace conference that is recognized by both Russia and Ukraine and one that ensures the equal participation of all parties in full discussion of all peace plans.
Lastly, China is ready to provide the necessary conditions for Russia and Ukraine to engage in negotiations and will continue to play a constructive role in promoting a political solution to the crisis.
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