China has confirmed it will not participate in a Ukraine peace conference hosted by Switzerland next month, according to four sources with direct knowledge of the matter. Beijing cited unmet conditions, including the necessity for participation by both Russia and Ukraine, three of the sources reported.
The Swiss government, aiming for a broad-based turnout, planned the summit for June 15-16 in hopes of paving the way for a peace process in Ukraine. However, Moscow was not invited. China briefed diplomats this week, explaining that the conditions for their participation included recognition of the conference by both Russia and Ukraine, equal participation by all parties, and a fair discussion of all proposals. A spokesperson from China's foreign ministry reiterated Monday that Beijing supports a peace conference recognized by both sides, with equal participation of all parties. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov suggested on Thursday that China could arrange a peace conference involving both Russia and Ukraine.
Earlier this year, Ukraine invited Chinese President Xi Jinping to attend the summit in Switzerland. This week, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy urged US President Joe Biden to attend, although Washington has not yet confirmed its representation.
China maintains close ties with Russia and has refrained from criticizing its invasion of Ukraine, but has previously offered to mediate in the conflict. Switzerland is still trying to persuade more countries from the Global South, including China, to attend the conference.
The Swiss government remains committed to facilitating a peace process and hopes to achieve a broad-based international presence at the summit despite the setback of China's non-participation.
