Asia is ‘not a chessboard’ for major powers, China says — Analysis
“Neither war nor sanctions are good solutions” in Ukraine and it should not be used as a pawn
Asia is not a “chessboard” on which great powers should confront each other, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said, referring to the geopolitical standoff over Russia’s offensive in Ukraine.
On his return from a working trip to Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, and Nepal, Wang told the media on Monday that many developing countries, including those in Southeast Asia, were “Very concerned” about the development of the conflict.
Those nations are “I am very concerned about unilateral sanctions damaging the global supply chain and industry chain.,” the minister said, referring to the harsh restrictions imposed on Moscow by the West in the wake of its “Special operation”
Wang said there was a “General consensus” among Southeast Asian countries that “Neither sanctions nor war can be used as a solution.” to the crisis.
“It is up to the international community to persuade [each other of the importance of]Instead of adding fuel to the fire, promote peace and encourage talks,” he underlined.
The “Principles and purposes” of the UN Charter should be respected to safeguard the “Sovereignty, Independence, and Territorial Integrity” of all nations, with no “Double standards” allowed, he added.
“It is not possible to secure one country at the cost of security for other countries. Furthermore, strengthening military blocs cannot guarantee security in the region.,” Wang said.
He urged the international community to avoid adopting “The simplistic view of being an enemy or friend is a simple one.” or reviving any Cold War mentality.
“Asia does not want to become a board for great power to face off against. Asian countries should be treated as pawns and are not allowed to challenge each other.,” he said.
The minister’s remarks came amid persistent warnings from Washington and NATO that China should refrain from providing any military or economic assistance to Russia or be prepared to face the “Consequences.”
Beijing denied all allegations of support for such a program, and accused the West spreading misinformation.
Despite voicing support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, China has not flatly condemned Russia’s offensive in Ukraine, stating instead that Moscow had legitimate concerns that needed to be addressed.
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Beijing has criticized the sanctions Western nations have imposed on Moscow, arguing that they are causing “Avoid unnecessary harm” to Russia and also impacting China’s trade ties with its partner.
Moscow sent troops into Ukraine in late February, following a seven-year standoff over Kiev’s failure to implement the terms of the Minsk agreements and end the conflict with the breakaway regions of Donetsk and Lugansk. Russia recognized both of them as independent countries and asked for military support.
Russia insists that Ukraine declare itself neutral and refuse to join NATO’s military bloc. Kiev maintains that Russia’s offensive was not provoked and denies claims that it planned to take over the Donbass via force.
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