INTERNATIONAL: Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called on relevant countries to adhere to the Minsk II agreement to solve the Ukraine crisis. Wang has made the remarks while attending the Munich Security Conference via a video link Saturday.
The Chinese foreign minister has said the only way to settle the Ukraine issue is through the implementation of the Minsk II agreement reached in 2015, since this agreement is a binding one reached through negotiations among all parties concerned and has been approved by the UN Security Council, and it is the only way out for solving the Ukraine issue, he said.
Wang has also mentioned that U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has told him during a phone call that the U.S. also supports the agreement.
"Shouldn't the relevant parties sit down together for a thorough discussion to work out a roadmap and timetable for the implementation of the agreement? This is what we should do right now, instead of increasing tensions, stoking panic, or hyping up war," said Wang.
When reiterating China's stance, in response to a question raised by Munich Security Conference Chairman Wolfgang Ischinger, Wang Yi has said all countries' sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity should be respected and safeguarded, and Ukraine is no exception.
He has further said if anyone questions China's attitude on this issue, it is nothing but a reflection of their ulterior motives and a distortion of China's position.
The diplomat has also called on NATO to re-consider its strategy. "Since the Cold War is long gone, NATO, a product of the Cold War, needs to adapt itself to the changing circumstances. If NATO keeps expanding eastward, will this be conducive to peace and stability in Europe.
“Will this contribute to long-term stability in Europe? This is a question that merits serious consideration by European friends," said Wang. Wang has said Ukraine should become a bridge of communication between the East and West, rather than the frontline of confrontation between major powers.
He has mentioned all parties can raise their own concerns for European security, and Russia's legitimate security concerns should be respected and taken seriously.
