Wang-China Will Maintain Objective & Impartial Stance On Ukraine

MNI (London) - Russian state-run outlet Tass citing top Chinese diplomat Wang Yi on his visit to Moscow. Wang: "China will maintain an objective and impartial stance on Ukraine crisis." Wang: "China will play a constructive role in political settlement of Ukraine crisis." Wang: "China appreciates Russia's willingness to resolve Ukraine crisis through negotiations."

• The recently-stated intentions of Beijing to act as a peace broker (outlined vaguely by Wang at the Munich Security Conference on Sunday) mark a departure for Chinese foreign policy. In recent decades, China has avoided becoming diplomatically involved in foreign conflicts or commenting on other nations' internal politics.
• The failure of Russia to secure a swift victory in Ukraine has seen the 'Western alliance' more united and NATO reinvigorated, both coming as potential challenges to Chinese influence and foreign policy objectives.

Separately, the Chinese Foreign Ministry has released a statement following Wang's meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

• Foreign Ministry: China is willing to work with Russia to strengthen strategic cooperation, safeguard legitimate interests of the two countries.
• Foreign Ministry: China is willing to work with Russia to deepen political trust, extend pragmatic cooperation, and play constructive role for both countries in promoting world peace and development.