New York, 17 February 2025
Remarks by China’s Permanent Representative to the UN Ambassador Fu Cong at the UN Security Council Briefing on Ukraine
At the outset, I would like to thank Assistant Secretary-General Miroslav Jenča and Mr. Roger Waters for their briefings.
10 years ago, the parties concerned with the Ukraine issue reached the Minsk Agreements through negotiations. The Agreements were subsequently endorsed by the Security Council in its Resolution 2202, which was adopted unanimously and represents the right direction of resolving differences and disputes through dialogue and negotiation. Regrettably, after the conclusion of the Agreements, most of the provisions were not fully and effectively implemented. The situation that should have gradually deescalated has instead become even more tense, ultimately leading to the full escalation of the crisis and a large scale conflict that continues to this day. The failure of the Minsk Agreements is deplorable, and its historical lessons warrant deep reflection.
Dear Colleagues,
China has consistently advocated for settling global disputes and conflicts peacefully through dialogue and consultation in accordance with the Charter of the United Nations. This applies equally to the Ukraine issue. China did not create the Ukraine crisis, nor is it a party to the crisis, yet China has neither stood idle nor taken advantage of it.
From the day after the crisis broke out, China has called for a political solution through dialogue and consultation. President Xi Jinping has put forward a four-point proposal, emphasizing that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected; the purposes and principles of the UN Charter observed; the legitimate security concerns of all countries given due regard, and all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of the crisis supported.
This is China’s fundamental guidance on the Ukraine issue. China has been actively engaged in diplomatic mediation and maintains contact with relevant parties, including Russia and Ukraine. China has had in-depth participation in the consideration of the Ukraine issue under the framework of the United Nations and its Security Council, and plays a constructive role in promoting ceasefire and political settlement.
China has also partnered with Brazil and other countries in creating the Group of Friends for Peace to garner the collective wisdom of the countries of the Global South and form an important force for peace. The evolving situation has proven that China’s proposal is objective, fair, rational, and pragmatic, reflecting the broad consensus of the international community.
At present, the Ukraine issue is about to reach a critical moment for a negotiated settlement. The ultimate resolution of any conflict lies at the negotiation table, and history will undoubtedly deliver a just outcome. China welcomes all efforts dedicated to peace, including the recent agreement reached by the United States and Russia to start peace talks.
At the same time, China hopes all relevant parties and stakeholders involved in the Ukraine crisis will engage in the peace talks process, and reach a fair, lasting, and binding peace agreement acceptable to all parties. As the conflict has been unfolding on European soil, it is imperative for Europe to work for peace. We hope the parties will jointly address the root causes of the crisis through negotiation and find a balanced, effective, and sustainable security framework for lasting stability in the region.
Source – Foreign Ministry of China