In the realm of global politics, where tensions often simmer and conflicts frequently erupt, the voice of reason and the hand of peace are invaluable commodities.
As one of the world’s largest economies and a key player in international affairs, China wields significant influence—a reality that Beijing recognizes and embraces.
As such, China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi has asserted China’s aim for peace.
Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of the country’s annual meeting of its parliament, Wang asserted, “In the face of complex turmoil in the international environment, China will persist in being a force for peace, a force for stability, and a force for progress in the world.”
He noted, “Major countries should not seek conflict and the Cold War should not be allowed to come back.”
Wang also insisted that Beijing maintained an “objective and impartial position” on Ukraine.
Noting that peace envoy, Li Hui was currently in the region, Wang called again for peace talks.
“A conflict, when prolonged, tends to deteriorate and escalate and could lead to an even bigger crisis,” Wang said.
China has positioned itself as a neutral party in the Ukraine war, and on the first anniversary of the conflict, released a 12-point peace plan calling for a ceasefire and talks between the two parties.
Commenting on China’s relationship with Russia, the Foreign Minister said that their relationship was a “strategic choice,” noting that bilateral trade had reached a record $240bn in 2023.
“New opportunities” lay ahead, he added, portraying the two countries’ ties as a “new paradigm” in the relations between big powers.
The veteran diplomat called Israel’s five-month-long war in Gaza and the world’s apparent inability to stop the bloodshed, a “tragedy for humanity and a disgrace for civilisation.”
Urging the release of “all detainees,” Wang called for an immediate ceasefire and peace talks.
“The calamity in Gaza is a wakeup call for the world,” he said.
Talks brokered by Egypt, Qatar and the US to reach a six-week ceasefire ahead of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan have so far failed to achieve breakthrough.
Wang also reiterated China’s longstanding commitment to a two-state solution, saying it was the only way to achieve an end to the conflict.
He also said China supported Palestine’s “full” membership of the United Nations.
Optimism In U.S-China Relations
Wang struck a note of optimism on relations with the U.S even though he lashed out at Washington for sanctions that he said had reached a “bewildering level of unfathomable absurdity.”
China’s relation with the U.S recovered some equilibrium late last year after the countries’ two Presidents met in San Francisco.
Noting that the U.S and China were due to mark 45 years of formal bilateral ties this year, Wang asserted that China wanted relations that were “stable and consistent” and that Washington could work with Beijing on the basis of “mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation.”
The two sides have been at odds over a range of issues from Taiwan to trade and an alleged Chinese spy balloon that was shot down after crossing into the U.S last year.
Wang reiterated China’s claim over Taiwan, a self-ruled island that Beijing maintains is part of its territory, and said those who sought independence would be “liquidated by history.”
He also had sharp warnings over the disputed South China Sea where China, which claims almost the entire sea despite an international tribunal ruling it without merit, has been involved in multiple confrontations with the Philippines in recent months.
“We resolutely oppose all acts of hegemony and bullying, and will strongly uphold national sovereignty and security as well as development interests,” Wang said.
READ ALSO: Trump Predicts Super Tuesday Win
