China is determined to promote peace through diplomacy in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as opposed to escalating tensions or smearing Beijing over its stance, according to President Xi Jinping. He emphasized that China’s goals are to avoid the expansion and intensification of the conflict, reduce tensions, and create conditions for peace talks.
China has been criticized by the US and its allies for indirectly aiding Russia in the fighting between Moscow and Kiev. These nations accuse Beijing of failing to curb the supply of dual-use goods to Russia. In contrast, Western countries are providing weapons, training, and intelligence support to Ukraine without being considered direct participants in the conflict.
During talks with Polish President Andrzej Duda, who was on a state visit to China, Xi stated that Beijing opposes individuals attempting to exploit Sino-Russian trade as an excuse for diverting attention and smearing China. He also expressed China’s willingness to continue playing a constructive role in the political resolution of the Ukraine crisis.
Earlier this month, Switzerland hosted a “peace summit” at Kiev’s request, but Russia was not invited, leading China to decline participation. Polish President Duda expressed hope that Beijing would play a role in resolving the conflict according to international law principles. Poland, which shares a border with Ukraine, is among the most vocal Western supporters of Kiev.
The Chinese government has rejected the Western framing of the Ukraine conflict as an unprovoked act of aggression by Russia. Instead, Beijing cites NATO’s expansion in Europe as a key factor contributing to the crisis. China has also consistently urged other countries to abandon their “Cold War mentality” and avoid engaging in “zero-sum games” in their foreign relations.
The four-hour long Polish-Chinese talks focused on bilateral issues, such as relaxing visa rules and Poland’s participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative, according to the two leaders.