As tensions between Russia and Ukraine have escalated over the past few years, the international community has been grappling with how to resolve the conflict. In recent developments, Chinese President Xi Jinping has spoken with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky about sending an envoy to Ukraine to discuss a possible “political settlement” to Russia’s war with the country. This marks an unusual move for China, as it has historically avoided involvement in conflicts between other countries.
China is the only major government that has friendly relations with Moscow, as well as economic leverage as the biggest buyer of Russian oil and gas after the US and its allies cut off most purchases. Mediating in the Ukraine-Russia conflict would elevate China’s presence in Eastern Europe, where Beijing has sought to build ties with other governments, prompting irritation from some European officials who see this as an attempt by China to gain leverage over the European Union.
However, political science professor Kimberly Marten of Barnard College at Columbia University felt sceptical about China’s ability to act as a peacemaker, adding that Beijing has been “too close to Russia”. Critics have also said that China’s recent positioning as a peace broker in the region is hypocritical, as they view China as anything but neutral in the ongoing conflict. Earlier this year, it emerged that Chinese companies shipped more than 1,000 assault rifles, drone parts, and body armor to Russia between June and December last year.
The upcoming state visit of Xi Jinping to Russia next week is expected to provide further insight into China’s stance on the conflict between Ukraine and Russia. The two leaders are expected to discuss “strategic cooperation” and sign bilateral documents. It is speculated that Xi may even call Zelensky during his visit, which would be the first meeting between the two leaders since Russia invaded Ukraine.
China’s growing engagement with Russia reflects its broader foreign policy stance. China is seeking to reshape the world order, to diminish the influence of the US and its Western allies. During a visit by Chinese leader Xi Jinping to Russia last month, Putin and Xi pledged further strategic cooperation, developing cooperation in energy, high-tech industries, and other sectors, plus expanding the use of their currencies in mutual trade to reduce dependence on the West.
Russia has sent a large contingent of athletes to the upcoming Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, with some athletes sent abroad to train in preparation. Speed skaters, who are expected to compete for the most medals, trained in Irkutsk, in the same time-zone as China. The Paralympics will follow between March 4 and 14, with Russia having qualified in all 15 sports for the Winter Olympics.
In conclusion, China’s potential role as a mediator in the Ukraine-Russia conflict marks a significant shift in its foreign policy stance. However, it remains to be seen how effective China will be in brokering peace in the region, given its close relationship with Russia. The state visit of Xi Jinping to Russia next week, and any further developments, will be closely watched by the international community.
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