China Prioritizes Peace in Ukraine-Russia Conflict
China, a global superpower, has expressed its intention to become a peace broker in the Ukrainian-Russian conflict. According to analysts, China does not have a stake in the result of the war, but it desires to win the peace. Despite the current tension between China and Russia, China’s role in Ukraine might lead to gaining a strategic advantage in Central Asia and other areas critical to China’s interest.
As a non-European country, China has refrained from direct intervention in the Ukrainian conflict. Instead, it has advocated for peaceful resolution and non-interference. In March 2022, China urged Ukraine and Russia to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis and rejected any external influence.
Moreover, China has offered peacekeeping and humanitarian aid, which it claims is intended to help Ukraine. China has expressed its willingness to provide emergency supplies such as food, water, and medicine, as well as help with reconstruction efforts after the conflict. Experts suggest that this aid could lead to the formation of a long-term relationship between China and Ukraine.
China’s involvement in the Ukrainian conflict also has the potential to challenge the US’s position in East Asia. The US has been more involved in the conflict and has provided military aid and other forms of support to Ukraine. As a result, China’s intervention in the conflict could be seen as a power move, raising its standing in the region.
The Ukraine-Russia conflict is significant for China as some of its interests are at stake. These interests are primarily economic and political and revolve around its Belt and Road initiative and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). The Belt and Road initiative aims to establish economic corridors connecting China with Central Asia, Europe, and Africa. Ukraine lies on the path, and China seeks to maintain stability in the region for the initiative’s success. The SCO, on the other hand, is a security and economic organization consisting of China, Russia, and Central Asian states. China expects to play a significant role in the organization and maintain its influence over the region.
China’s involvement in the Ukrainian conflict could also have implications for its relations with Russia. The two countries have had a strained relationship in recent years. China has distanced itself from Russia, particularly after Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014. However, both countries maintain close economic ties, and China needs Russia’s cooperation for its Belt and Road initiative. By intervening in the Ukraine conflict, China could establish itself as the ultimate mediator, potentially enhancing its relationship with Russia.
In conclusion, China’s involvement in the Ukrainian conflict serves its global, economic, and political interests. Its role as a peace broker could result in long-term relations with Ukraine, which would be beneficial for the Belt and Road Initiative. Additionally, it could gain China a strategic advantage in Central Asia, potentially challenging the US’s position. Furthermore, it offers an opportunity for China to enhance its relationship with Russia.