Beijing, 16 March 2023 (TDI): According to some sources, China President Xi Jinping is scheduled to speak with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for the first time since the beginning of the Ukraine war.
This discussion is anticipated during Xi’s visit to Moscow next week to meet with Russian President, Vladimir Putin. The conversation is a significant step toward China’s efforts to be more active in reconciling a resolution to the Ukrainian conflict.
It demonstrates Beijing’s expanding global influence. Chinese policy towards the Ukraine conflict has always been neutral. However, recent events have compelled Beijing to mediate the problem increasingly.
Due to its reliance on Russia as a critical partner in its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China has a stake in preserving regional stability. Furthermore, China considers the Ukraine issue an opportunity to demonstrate its diplomatic abilities.
The predicted meeting between Xi and Zelenskyy is crucial in China’s efforts to resolve the Ukraine crisis. Zelenskyy & Chinese President Xi have not spoken since hostilities in Ukraine began.
Xi Jinping has frequently spoken with Russian President Putin. Leaders’ interaction conveys a message that China is prepared to utilize its diplomatic might to resolve the problem.
China has become more involved in mediating international issues, such as the Saudi Iran resuming ties in recent years.
With the planned meeting between Xi and Zelenskyy, China’s attempts to resolve the Ukraine situation have also made significant progress.
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Success in the talks will enhance China’s reputation as a reliable member of the international community. Additionally, it will open the door for China to participate more actively in future conflicts on a worldwide scale.
Before the war, China was Ukraine’s primary trade partner. It supplies about 30% of its maize imports. China has also invested in Ukrainian infrastructure projects.
According to official Chinese figures, in 2022, trade between China and Ukraine decreased by 60% from the previous year to $7.6 billion. Meanwhile, trade between Moscow and Beijing increased by 29% from the prior year to $190 billion.
China has become a big buyer of Russia’s oil. Russia has also increased its usage of China’s currency, the yuan.
China’s growing role in global diplomacy and its commitment to promoting peaceful conflict resolution is critical today. China has the ability and obligation to substantially influence international relations as one of the most significant economies in the world.
China is providing an example for other nations to follow by interacting with leaders from many countries and aggressively resolving disputes.
In addition to Moscow, Xi is contemplating adding other European countries to his schedule. It indicates China’s growing interest in Europe and its efforts to strengthen ties with the continent.
China has recently attempted to strengthen its commercial and political ties with Europe, and Xi’s visit could strengthen these ties even further.