Prospects for negotiations with Russia have reappeared on the horizon of international relations. This time, the main initiators are China and Turkey.
Turkey and China’s Role
Turkey and China are reportedly developing their own negotiation platforms to settle the war in Ukraine, according to the Institute for the Study of War. Analysts believe that Russia may use this to advance its narratives on negotiations with Ukraine and war, based on China’s approach to a vague peace political plan for Ukraine.
According to ISW analysts, the Kremlin is likely to turn these proposals into informational weapons to push the idea that Ukraine is refusing to negotiate. Experts are convinced that Russia is not actually interested in honest negotiations with Ukraine and ending the war under any conditions, except for clearly formulated ones by the Russian Federation.
Official Positions
China’s special representative on Eurasian affairs, Li Huiye, will visit Ukraine, Russia, several EU countries, and Brussels for negotiations on settling the Russian-Ukrainian war, reports the Chinese agency Xinhua, citing a statement from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
This trip will be the «second round of ongoing diplomacy in search of a political solution to the Ukrainian crisis,» according to a statement from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In addition to Ukraine, Russia, and Belgium, China’s special representative will also visit France, Germany, and Poland. Visits will begin on March 2. On Wednesday, China stated that «the most pressing task at the moment is to restore peace.»
«Over the past two years, we have never given up our efforts to promote peace and have never stopped pushing for negotiations,» said Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Nin at a briefing.
Li visited the region last year as part of efforts to mediate in the conflict, holding talks in Moscow, Kyiv, and several European capitals. Although China claims to be a neutral party in the war in Ukraine, it is criticized for refusing to condemn Russia for its aggression.
Meanwhile, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced again on February 28 that Ankara is ready to provide Moscow and Kyiv with another platform for negotiations.
