China playing a key role in maintaining world peace

In an increasingly polarized world, China is emerging as a significant player in the quest for world peace. The country's consistent calls for immediate cease-fires and direct negotiations for the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Palestine-Israel conflict, as well as its recent hosting of high-level officials from relevant parties in Beijing, underscore its great efforts and unique potential in mediating in these crises.

China recently brokered a historic unity pledge by 14 different Palestinian factions in Beijing, while Ukraine Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba wrapped up a four-day visit to China, during which Beijing reiterated its readiness to keep playing a constructive role in pushing for a cease-fire.

China, with its pragmatic approach and deep-rooted philosophical values, is well-positioned to play a pivotal role in resolving these conflicts.

The country's foreign policy is marked by a pragmatic approach that has proven effective over decades. Its economic diplomacy has helped form influential groupings and fostered stable relationships, even in complex scenarios. The late Philippine ambassador to China, Chito Sta. Romana, noted that China has successfully resolved numerous border disputes through patient bilateral negotiations. This pragmatic approach extends to its relations with Russia and Ukraine, where China's substantial trade ties make it a critical stakeholder. Similarly, its evolving relationships in the Middle East — highlighted by deep historical ties with Palestinian leaders and improving relations with Israel — demonstrate its diplomatic effectiveness.

China's diplomacy is deeply influenced by ancient Confucian and Taoist philosophies, which emphasize harmony and the reconciliation of contradictions. Confucianism advocates social stability and order, while Daoism promotes balance and the natural flow of events. As the Chinese proverb goes, "Harmony is precious", reflecting the country's commitment to maintaining harmony in its diplomatic efforts.

Additionally, "A gentleman seeks harmony but not uniformity" underscores the importance of achieving balance while respecting differences.

These ancient principles guide China's efforts in conflict resolution, aiming to harmonize opposing views and foster mutual understanding.

The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence — mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, mutual nonaggression, noninterference in each other's internal affairs, equality and mutual benefit, and peaceful coexistence — form the cornerstone of China's diplomatic strategy. In the Russia-Ukraine conflict and Palestine-Israel conflict, China has emphasized these principles by advocating for direct negotiations and respecting concerns of all parties. This approach resonates with the global community's desire for a fair and balanced resolution to these conflicts.

Proposed by President Xi Jinping during the Boao Forum in April 2022, the Global Security Initiative upholds the vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security. It pursues the long-term objective of building a security community and advocates a new path to security featuring dialogue over confrontation, partnership over alliance, and win-win over zero-sum. The concept paper lays out 20 priorities for cooperation, including upholding the United Nations' central role in security governance, supporting efforts to prevent war and conflict, developing peace-building architecture, and promoting post-war reconstruction.

China has growing economic influence. As the largest trade partner of both Russia and Ukraine, it holds significant leverage in these negotiations. Its economic relations with Israel and long-standing support for Palestinian causes further enhance its mediation capabilities. China's success in brokering reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran illustrates its diplomatic sophistication and ability to manage complex international issues. The Chinese proverb "Endure a moment of anger to maintain peace; retreat a step to gain a wider perspective" reflects the strategic patience and compromise that underpin China's diplomatic approach.

China's strategic interests are closely tied to global stability. By facilitating cease-fire talks, China not only bolsters its global stature but also aligns with its economic and geopolitical goals. A stable global environment is essential for China's continued economic growth and the realization of its long-term strategic objectives. Historically a victim of foreign invasions and never a colonizing power, China abhors and opposes the chaos and immorality of war.

Therefore, it can be concluded that China's unique blend of historical pragmatism, philosophical depth and rising economic power positions it as a key mediator in the Ukraine and Gaza conflicts.

Despite ongoing challenges, China's commitment to peaceful coexistence and its strategic interests in global stability provide a robust foundation for facilitating cease-fire negotiations. As global attention focuses on these conflicts, China's efforts could hopefully pave the way for more balanced, decisive and enduring resolutions to these crises.

The author is moderator of Pandesal Forum and columnist of Philippine Star and Abante newspapers. The views do not necessarily reflect those of China
Daily.