In a significant development amidst the escalating conflict in Ukraine, China and the Vatican have engaged in discussions regarding Beijing’s six-point peace plan. This unusual dialogue, as reported by the South China Morning Post, highlights both parties’ commitment to finding a negotiated solution to the war. The call between Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, the Vatican’s special peace envoy, and Li Hui, his Chinese counterpart, marks a rare instance of engagement between the two entities, considering the Holy See’s lack of formal diplomatic relations with Beijing.
China’s foreign ministry emphasized the importance of the six common understandings issued by China and Brazil, which include a call for a ceasefire and a negotiated end to the conflict. The Vatican, on its part, expressed appreciation for China’s efforts to promote peace and acknowledged the six-point plan. While Russia and Ukraine have expressed willingness to engage in talks under specific conditions, the recent Russian offensive has cast doubt on the prospects of negotiations in the near future.
China has positioned itself as a peacemaker in the conflict, actively promoting direct talks between the warring parties. Li Hui has been traveling the world to garner support for the six-point plan, particularly among Global South nations. China claims to have secured support from 26 countries and received favorable responses from over 100. Meanwhile, Zuppi has also been actively involved in peace missions, engaging in meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, US President Joe Biden, and top advisors to Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Experts see the shared stance of China and the Vatican on the Ukraine conflict as significant. Pan Dawei, director of the Centre for Russian and Central Asian Studies at the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, points out the Vatican’s high standing among Western countries. He believes that the Vatican’s endorsement of China’s position could further strengthen Beijing’s influence in the conflict.
While China insists on its neutrality in the war, its close ties with Russia have caused tensions with the European Union. Several Chinese companies have been sanctioned by the EU and the United States for suspected transfers of dual-use products to Russia. The recent offensive by Russia into Ukrainian territory further complicates the situation and underscores the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.
