China – Conversation between Jean-Yves Le Drian and his Chinese counterpart (10 Mar. 2022)

Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian held a video conference today with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi.

The two ministers spoke about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Mr. Le Drian underscored the catastrophic humanitarian repercussions of this war, which was instigated and is being waged by Russia, and the importance of establishing an immediate ceasefire so that the Ukrainian people may be given safe and unhindered access to humanitarian assistance. He emphasized the degree to which the Russian offensive in Ukraine is profoundly destabilizing the international order and took note of the strong concerns expressed by his Chinese counterpart regarding the major economic impacts this conflict may have at the global level, and especially on energy markets. The Minister therefore encouraged his Chinese counterpart to use all of China’s influence to pressure Russia to end the war. The two ministers agreed to continue their discussions, particularly at the UN Security Council, in order to help find a swift diplomatic solution that ends the war, fully respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and makes it possible to provide humanitarian relief to the Ukrainian people.

The two ministers also agreed on the importance of swiftly reaching an agreement that would allow Iran and the United States to return to the Vienna Agreement on the Iranian nuclear program. Mr. Le Drian emphasized that reaching such an agreement in the coming days would make a positive contribution to international stability in light of the war in Ukraine. It is therefore in our common interest to encourage all parties to conclude the negotiations this week.

Lastly, following on from recent conversations between President Macron and his Chinese counterpart, the two ministers discussed bilateral relations between the two countries.