Macron proposes winter moratorium on Russian strikes against Ukraine's energy grid
French President Emmanuel Macron and China's leader Xi Jinping (photo: Getty Images)
French President Emmanuel Macron proposed to China’s leader, Xi Jinping, that China pressure Russia to accept a moratorium on strikes against Ukraine's energy infrastructure at least until the end of winter, according to the joint press conference between Macron and Xi.
Macron stated that the war in Ukraine poses a significant threat to European security. It also threatens the international order, which is built "on the rule of law and the effectiveness of our shared charter."
Macron noted that since China and France understand "the seriousness of the situation and the need for a powerful and lasting peace," Beijing and Paris can strengthen their cooperation in this effort.
"I hope that China will join our call for cooperation and our efforts to achieve at least a ceasefire as soon as possible in the form of a moratorium on strikes targeting critical infrastructure. This is essential for the coming winter, since today civilian infrastructure, and in particular energy infrastructure, remains under attack by Russia," he said.
Macron also urged Xi to work toward a lasting and just peace in Ukraine so that the war there can finally be ended and not repeated.
Xi Jinping himself stated during the press conference with Macron that China supports a peace agreement regarding Ukraine. However, according to him, China hopes for a "fair and binding agreement acceptable to all parties."
On December 3, Macron arrived in China for a three-day state visit. The plans of the French president, who is visiting China for the fourth time, included discussions on trade and diplomacy, as well as a request for Beijing to pressure its vassal, Russia, to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine.
