Duda heads to China to meet with Xi Jinping and talk about Ukraine
Polish President Andrzej Duda (Getty Images)
Polish President Andrzej Duda is set to embark on a working visit to China this weekend to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping during the trip, according to PAP.
Duda said that he plans to discuss economic relations and peace in Ukraine with Xi Jinping. He underscored China's importance for the future peace in Ukraine.
The Polish President also said that Ukraine's territory holds significant importance within China's Belt and Road Initiative, aimed at developing infrastructure networks connecting China with Central Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.
Duda will depart for China overnight from Friday to Saturday, with the visit concluding on Wednesday.
The Belt and Road Initiative, also known as One Belt, One Road, is a major infrastructure initiative proposed by China in 2013. It encompasses two main routes:
- The Silk Road Economic Belt: a land route through Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
- The 21st-century Maritime Silk Road: a sea route connecting China with Southeast Asia, South Asia, Africa, and Europe.
China's stance on war
China's stance on the conflict in Ukraine remains ambiguous. While officially declaring neutrality and refraining from condemning Russia's actions or joining Western sanctions, Chinese President Xi Jinping has expressed support for a political resolution to the crisis.
However, Western countries maintain a different view, accusing China of aiding Russian aggression. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg explicitly said that Beijing bears responsibility for the consequences of its support for Russia unless it changes its stance.
