Mr. President,

I thank Under-Secretary-General Rosemary DiCarlo for her briefing.

It has been more than two years since the breakout of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict and the total escalation of the Ukraine crisis. In the course of more than two years, we have seen too much misery and too many human tragedies unfolding. In this very chamber, we have also heard too much expression of grief, pain, appeals, persuasion, and heated debate. With the fighting still ongoing, the risk of spillover continues to emerge. One more day of conflict brings one more element of risk to the world. One day earlier for peace talks means one day sooner for peace. Peace is a matter of utmost urgency as well as a matter of public expectation.

On the question of Ukraine, China has always maintained that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected, the purposes and principles of the UN Charter be upheld, the legitimate security concerns of all countries be taken seriously, and all efforts conducive to a political resolution of the crisis be supported. We reiterate our call on the parties to the conflict to demonstrate political will, move towards each other, build consensus, cease fighting, and start peace talks at an early date. We call on the international community to step up its diplomatic efforts to create conditions for deescalating the situation and achieving a political settlement.

China has always maintained an objective and impartial position, and has participated in promoting peace talks. Recently, the Special Representative of the Chinese Government on Eurasian Affairs visited Russia, Ukraine, the EU, Poland, Germany, and France, where he engaged in an in-depth exchange of views with relevant parties on the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, carried out shuffle mediation, and relayed messages and information. We support the holding in due course of an international peace conference that is recognized by both Russia and Ukraine and one that ensures the equal participation of all parties in full discussion of all peace plans. China is ready to provide the necessary conditions for Russia and Ukraine to engage in negotiations, and will continue to play a constructive role in promoting a political solution to the crisis.

Thank you, Mr. President.