China outlines its 12-point peace plan to resolve war in Ukraine

First modification: 02/24/2023 – 11:16

With RFI correspondent in Beijing, Stéphane Lagarde.

The 12 Point Document published this Friday on the website of the Chinese Foreign Ministry includes several proposals mentioned in the “global security initiative” launched by Beijing a few days ago.

The imperative of dialogue

With the first point, China urges “respect the sovereignty of all countries”, stressing that “all countries, whether big or small, strong or weak, rich or poor, are equal members of the international community”, and that ” the equal and uniform application of international law must be promoted”.

See here the complete document in Spanish

The document also highlights the importance of dialogue and negotiation: “All parties should support Russia and Ukraine to work in the same direction and resume direct dialogue as soon as possible, to gradually de-escalate the situation, and ultimately reach a comprehensive ceasefire”, reads the text.

In point 8, China strongly rejects the use of nuclear weapons, put forward on several occasions by Vladimir Putin: “Nuclear weapons should not be used, and nuclear wars should not be waged.”

“Abandon the Cold War mentality”

Several points are dedicated to civilians. Beijing calls for the protection of civilians and prisoners of war and the preservation of economic exchanges. It is necessary to “facilitate grain exports,” says Chinese diplomacy, “keep industrial and supply chains stable,” and “promote post-conflict reconstruction.”

In addition to these arguments, more in line with the resolution defended by Western diplomacy, the Chinese government’s plan includes abandoning “unilateral sanctions.” It also advocates for the resolution of “the humanitarian crisis” and the abandonment of “the Cold War mentality”, avoiding “the confrontation between blocs”.

China intends to position itself as a mediator in this conflict. But for kyiv, the precondition is the withdrawal of Russian troops.