Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed gratitude to German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Tuesday for his diplomatic endeavors in Beijing aimed at resolving Kyiv‘s prolonged conflict with Russia.
Zelenskiy highlighted the potential role of China in facilitating peace talks. Amid Ukraine’s efforts to garner Chinese support, Scholz engaged in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, urging China to exert pressure on Russia to cease its military campaign and end the ongoing conflict.
However, Xi indicated reservations about the upcoming peace summit in Switzerland, emphasizing the need for mutual recognition and equal participation by all stakeholders.
Zelenskiy commended Scholz for his leadership and international outreach, underscoring the significance of China’s involvement in restoring peace and fostering stability in global relations.
He viewed the upcoming Swiss meeting as an opportunity to uphold the principles outlined in the U.N. Charter.
While Chinese representatives attended preliminary meetings for the Swiss summit, their stance on the matter remains ambiguous.
Senior Chinese envoy Li Hui engaged in discussions in both Moscow and Kyiv but emphasized the necessity of Moscow’s participation in any negotiations concerning the Ukrainian conflict.
In his address, Zelenskiy expressed optimism about the potential for China to contribute to achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine. The international community awaits further developments as diplomatic efforts continue to unfold.
Amidst diplomatic maneuvers, Zelenskiy and Scholz’s efforts underscore the complex dynamics at play in resolving the Ukrainian conflict, with China’s role emerging as a focal point in the pursuit of peace.