President, 

China’s position on the Ukraine issue has been clear-cut, unequivocal, and consistent. No sooner had the crisis begun to escalate on a full scale in February 2022 than President Xi Jinping made it clear that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected, the purposes and principles of the UN Charter upheld, the parties’ legitimate security concerns taken seriously, and all efforts conducive to peace supported. These are the fundamental tenets that anchor China’s position on the Ukraine issue. The past three years have witnessed China’s continuous, intensive efforts to make peace talks happen and make peace come true. China sent a special envoy on a proactive mission of shuttle diplomacy, and stays engaged with the relevant parties, including Russia, Ukraine, the United States, and Europe, calling for adherence to the three principles, namely, no spillover of the battlefield, no escalation of the fighting, and no provocation by any party. Together with Brazil and other countries of the Global South, we set up a Group of Friends for Peace to pool the wisdom of the Global South and create an important force that supports and pushes for peace. 

President, 

As we speak, the calls for a negotiated solution to the Ukraine issue are growing, and the window of opportunity for peace is opening. China supports all efforts dedicated to peace, including the agreement reached between the US and Russia on launching peace talks. China encourages the parties concerned and other stakeholders to participate in the negotiation process, find a just and lasting solution that addresses each other’s concerns, and arrive at a binding peace deal that is acceptable to all parties. We hope Europe will contribute to peace and come together to tackle the root causes of the crisis in the interests of lasting peace and stability on the continent. At this critical juncture, we are counting on the international community to create an enabling atmosphere for a political solution to the crisis, and on the UN General Assembly to help forge consensus for peace among Member States. China remains committed to searching tirelessly for a political solution, and will decide our voting positions on today’s two draft resolutions and the amendments thereto in keeping with the principles that we have always stood for. 

Thank you, President.