Rosalind Evans
China’s Hosting of Palestinian and Ukrainian Delegations Raises Questions
In a week marked by intense diplomacy, China’s top diplomat Wang Yi has engaged in significant talks aimed at addressing two of the world’s most pressing conflicts. The diplomatic efforts saw Wang convening 14 Palestinian factions in Beijing for reconciliation talks, followed by a meeting with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba. These talks underline Beijing’s ambition to be a key player in global peace efforts.
Palestinian Reconciliation Efforts in Beijing
Wang Yi began his diplomatic endeavors by bringing together rival Palestinian factions, including Hamas and Fatah, for talks aimed at reconciliation. The discussions concluded with the signing of a declaration on “ending division,” which Wang hailed as a “historical moment in the Palestinian liberation cause.” Despite skepticism in the Middle East about the longevity of such agreements, this effort highlights China’s role in mediating long-standing regional conflicts.
Ukraine’s Search for Peace
The visit of Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba to China marked the first such visit since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine nearly two and a half years ago. During their meeting, Wang Yi reiterated China’s support for “all efforts that contribute to peace” while maintaining a stance of neutrality despite its close ties with Russia. This delicate balance reflects Beijing’s strategy to present itself as a potential peace broker without alienating its key allies.
China’s Diplomatic Ambitions
Experts suggest that China’s recent diplomatic activities are part of a broader strategy to position itself as a global leader, particularly among countries in the Global South. Steve Tsang, director of the SOAS China Institute at the University of London, noted, “China’s ambition is to be recognized and accepted as a – if not the – global leader, enlisting the support of the Global South.”
The Challenges of Balancing Relationships
China’s attempt to mediate in the Gaza conflict comes with its challenges. Despite its efforts, Beijing lacks profound influence in the Middle East, and its strong ties with Russia complicate its calls for peace in Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed hope that China could leverage its relationship with Russia to push for peace, yet Beijing’s official stance has not shifted significantly towards Ukraine’s demands.
Wang Yi’s Meeting with US Secretary of State
As part of his busy diplomatic week, Wang Yi is also expected to engage with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. This meeting, set to occur during a regional gathering in Laos, could further illustrate China’s complex role in global diplomacy, especially in light of Western criticisms of Beijing’s ties with Moscow.
Observations on China’s Peace-Brokering Role
Despite China’s ambitions, observers remain cautious about its potential to resolve these conflicts. Jonathan Fulton, a nonresident senior fellow for the Atlantic Council’s Middle East programs, remarked, “Nobody’s looking at China and saying, ‘Well, this is the country that’s going to come and solve it,’ because they see it as a self-interested actor with a shallow level of regional knowledge and expertise.”
While China’s recent diplomatic efforts highlight its desire to be seen as a significant global peace broker, the complexities of the conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine and its strategic alliances suggest that Beijing’s path to becoming a successful mediator will be fraught with challenges.
China’s recent diplomatic engagements underscore its ambition to play a pivotal role in resolving global conflicts. However, the complexities and challenges inherent in these efforts highlight the intricate balance Beijing must maintain to be an effective peace broker. As the world watches, China’s actions will determine its success in shaping a more peaceful global landscape in the coming months.
