On the anniversary of Russia's attack on Ukraine, the Chinese Foreign Ministry published its "position on the political settlement of the Ukrainian crisis".
This is actually a position, not a peace plan, which was allegedly mentioned earlier.
The document has 12 paragraphs:
- Respecting the sovereignty of all countries.
- Abandoning the Cold War mentality.
- Ceasing hostilities.
- Resuming peace talks.
- Resolving the humanitarian crisis.
- Protecting civilians and prisoners of war (POWs).
- Keeping nuclear power plants safe.
- Reducing strategic risks.
- Facilitating grain exports.
- Stopping unilateral sanctions.
- Keeping industrial and supply chains stable.
- Promoting post-conflict reconstruction.
“Universally recognized international law, including the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, must be strictly observed. The sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries must be effectively upheld. All countries, big or small, strong or weak, rich or poor, are equal members of the international community,” the first paragraph says.
The paragraph on the "Cold War mentality" states, in particular, that “All parties should oppose the pursuit of one’s own security at the cost of others’ security, prevent bloc confrontation, and work together for peace and stability on the Eurasian Continent”.
Regarding the cessation of hostilities, China notes: “All parties should support Russia and Ukraine in working in the same direction and resuming direct dialogue as quickly as possible, so as to gradually deescalate the situation and ultimately reach a comprehensive ceasefire.”
The Chinese also emphasize that unilateral sanctions and maximum pressure cannot resolve the issue, but only create new problems.
“China opposes unilateral sanctions unauthorized by the UN Security Council. Relevant countries should stop abusing unilateral sanctions and “long-arm jurisdiction” against other countries, so as to do their share in deescalating the Ukraine crisis and create conditions for developing countries to grow their economies and better the lives of their people,” the Foreign Ministry said.
Western leaders showed a nervous reaction to the Chinese peace plan. At the same time, they cautiously welcomed the move as the first sign that China recognizes the war as something that cannot be seen as a solely European affair.