China vows to play 'constructive role' for peace between Ukraine, Russia - Chinese VP Han at UNGA

“Chinese Vice President Han Zheng on Thursday called on the world to stay true to multilateralism and improve global governance, in a wide-ranging speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Speaking at the General Debate of the 78th session of UNGA, Han said that UN member states should uphold equity and justice, and safeguard peace and security; pursue mutual benefit, deliver win-win outcomes and achieve development for all; stay open and inclusive, and advance human civilization; and stay true to multilateralism and improve global governance.

China, the vice president said, supports all efforts that are conducive to the peaceful resolution of the Ukraine crisis and stands ready to continue playing a constructive role for the early attainment of peace.

Earlier on Wednesday, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu also said during a high-level open debate at U.N., that China is willing to work with United Nations (UN) Security Council members and relevant parties to continue playing a constructive role in promoting a political settlement of the Ukraine crisis.

Ma said that China's position on the Ukraine issue is consistent and clear.

There are deep roots and complex causes for the development of the Ukraine crisis, and its protracted and escalating nature is not in the interest of any party. The international community should stay committed to promoting peace talks, avoid adding fuel to the fire, manage spillover risks, and alleviate the humanitarian crisis, Ma said.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for striping Russia's veto power in the UN Security Council in his speech at the debate, and outlined a 10-point formula for ending the Russia-Ukraine tensions at the debate, while Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov highlighted that the veto power is a legitimate tool which is regulated by the UN Charter.

He condemned Western countries for their silence on the root cause of the Ukraine crisis, and noted that these countries focus on their own geopolitical needs, which has undermined global stability and intensified tensions.”