MUNICH: Beijing’s top diplomat Wang Yi said during a speech on Saturday at a major security conference that no matter the changes in the international situation, China as a responsible major country will always maintain the continuity and stability of its major policies and resolutely stay a “force for stability in a turbulent world”.

Foreign Minister Wang’s address at the Munich Security Conference, a gathering of 180 leaders and defence chiefs, followed a fresh appeal by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for more help in his country’s fight against Russian troops.

China says it is a neutral party in the conflict but has been criticised for refusing to condemn Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine.

“China-Russia relations do not involve forming alliances, creating opposition or targeting third parties,” Wang said.

Kamala Harris assures Zelensky of unwavering support against Russia

“They are normal relations between two neighbouring major countries.”

He added China opposes “pushing responsibility for the Ukraine crisis onto China”. He said, “China has already done a lot of constructive work (on Ukraine). We will continue to play a positive role.”

Wang also reiterated China’s stance on Gaza conflict, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the opening of channels for humanitarian aid into the area. “We cannot allow this humanitarian disaster to continue,” he said.

Can’t play political games: Kamala

While addressing a joint presser along with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky after holding bilateral talks on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference, US Vice President Kamala Harris said the United States must not allow aid for Ukraine to be held up by political brinksmanship.

“As it relates to our support for Ukraine, we must be unwavering and we cannot play political games,” she said, as wrangling in Congress blocks $60 billion worth of military backing.

Expressing confidence in Kyiv’s biggest financial and military contributor, Zelensky said he did “not think that our strategic partner will allow itself to stop supporting Ukraine”.

She said, “It has been a source of our pride and our commitment to democracy and to democratic principles to support you [Ukraine] in every way we possibly can. And our support is unyielding and unending,” she underlined.

Zelensky underlined that Ukraine “needs your unity during such a challenging period for us, and of course in the United States”.

Published in Dawn, February 18th, 2024