China urged Russia and Ukraine to resume peace talks as soon as possible and warned that nuclear weapons should not be used in the conflict, according to a document released on Friday (Feb. 24) to mark the first anniversary of the start of the war became.
“All parties should support Russia and Ukraine to work in the same direction and resume direct dialogue as soon as possible,” the Chinese foreign ministry said in a 12point document for a “political solution” to the conflict.
Beijing has also rejected the use of nuclear weapons days after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the suspension of his participation in a nuclear disarmament treaty with the United States.
“Nuclear weapons must not be used and nuclear wars must never be waged. The threat or use of nuclear weapons must be countered,” the document added.
The text also emphasizes the need to protect civilians: “The parties to the conflict must strictly comply with international humanitarian law and refrain from attacking civilians or civilian facilities.”
China has tried to position itself as a neutral party in the conflict, despite maintaining ties with its strategic ally Moscow.
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Chinese diplomat Wang Yi met with Putin and his Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Wednesday (22) in the Russian capital to present his “political solution” to the war.
Ukrainian President Volodymir Zelenskyy said Thursday he had not seen China’s peace plan and wanted to meet with Beijing officials to discuss the proposal before presenting his views.
“Overall, I find it very positive that China has started talking about Ukraine and sending signals,” said Zelenskyy.
Since the Russian invasion began, China has offered Putin diplomatic and financial support, but has refrained from any military involvement or arms sales to the allies.