The Chinese initiative 'Friends of Peace' continues to actively work on resolving the situation in Ukraine. The group, created at the initiative of Beijing and Brazil, aims to politically resolve the conflict in eastern Ukraine.
Mao Ning, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, emphasized that 'Friends of Peace' calls on all sides of the conflict to cease hostilities and fosters the conditions for establishing peace in the region, reported Ukrinform.
However, the question of a direct appeal from 'Friends of Peace' to Russia to stop the war remains open. Mao Ning did not specify to whom their calls are directed, simply reiterating general statements about the constructive role of the group.
The spokesperson stated that since the creation of the initiative, 'Friends of Peace' has played an important role in the political resolution of the conflict and will continue this work until peace is achieved in Ukraine.
Criticism of the 'Friends of Peace' Platform and Ukraine's Position
The 'Friends of Peace' platform was founded in September 2024 on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly and unites countries of the Global South that prefer the approaches of China and Brazil in resolving the conflict. However, critics note that the group often equates the aggressor and the victim, issuing neutral calls to all sides of the conflict.
The Ukrainian government has repeatedly stated its readiness for a fair resolution based on international law, but is forced to repel Russian aggression due to Moscow's constant refusal to cease military actions.
To resolve the conflict in eastern Ukraine, China and Brazil created the 'Friends of Peace' initiative, which has been active since September 2024. Despite criticism for neutral calls and lack of specification of addressees, Ukraine asserts its position and readiness for a fair resolution of the situation based on international norms.