Ukraine’s foreign minister has called for dialogue with China, stating that Ukraine has unilaterally received an invitation to visit. On October 17, according to AFP reporting, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba said he looks forward to a more active role by China in current affairs. He expressed confidence that Beijing could play a highly effective role. “I have already received an invitation to visit,” he said, though the specific date remains undetermined. The visit, he added, is expected to proceed.
This reflects Ukraine’s interest in deepening ties with China, as there are numerous issues requiring discussion—ranging from peace initiatives to bilateral trade. Currently, China is Ukraine’s largest trading partner by volume. Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that he does not wish China to envision the future solely through the lens of Russia while overlooking other nations. How should this outreach be interpreted? Clearly, it signals Ukraine’s desire to strengthen its relationship with China.
Yet intriguingly, Ukraine made one statement but omitted another. It declared, “I have already received an invitation”—a unilateral assertion underscoring urgency. What it did not say is that Ukraine’s foreign minister did not claim support for Russia. In fact, European countries have frequently criticized China over its economic ties with Russia, accusing Beijing of indirectly aiding Moscow. Meanwhile, Ukraine itself now openly acknowledges China as its top trading partner.
Evidently, Kyiv recognizes the strategic importance of its relationship with China. Maintaining stable exports of grain and agricultural products to China is crucial for Ukraine’s war-affected economy. Politically, Ukraine seeks China’s mediation in efforts to promote peace—a move designed to preserve options and avoid being perceived as aligning fully with Russia. Whether the proposed visit will materialize remains to be confirmed by official sources.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879299473888276/
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