China, Brazil move to form ‘Friends of Peace’ platform to end Ukraine war

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ISTANBUL (AA) – China, Brazil and other like-minded countries of the Global South are moving to form a “Friend of Peace” platform to work towards ending war in Ukraine that began in February 2022.

This was discussed between China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Brazilian president’s chief adviser Celso Amorim on the sidelines of the 79th UN General Assembly in New York on Thursday.

The two countries have issued six-point consensus, which calls on all parties concerned to de-escalate, create conditions for direct talks until the realization of a cease-fire, increase humanitarian assistance, oppose use of weapons of mass destruction, oppose attacks on nuclear power plants and other peaceful nuclear facilities, and protect the stability of global industrial and supply chains.

The platform “aims to make an objective and rational voice and play a constructive role in the political settlement of the Ukrainian issue,” Wang said, according to a government statement.

Beijing said the six-point consensus has “received positive responses from over 110 countries, reflecting the broad expectations of the international community.”

“The consensus seeks to gather more balanced, objective, and rational perspectives to create conditions for a ceasefire, end hostilities, foster dialogue, and build momentum for negotiations, all aimed at achieving peace,” China’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian told reporters in Beijing.

The Chinese side, he added, “remains committed to engaging with all relevant parties to create conditions for a political resolution to the crisis.”

"It is not an exclusive grouping that seeks competition and confrontation, but an open platform for inclusive dialogue. The platform is for peace and should be welcomed by the international community," the spokesperson said.

It is said that China is working behind the scenes at the General Assembly to “seek support” from countries in Latin America, Asia and Africa on its proposal.

According to Politico, China is trying to persuade diplomats to support peace talks focused on taking into account the security interests of each country, with the objective of preventing Russia from losing the war.