Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong has urged China to not provide Russia with weapons in assist of Vladimir Putin’s struggle towards Ukraine and mentioned the world was trying to China to point out “responsible leadership”.
Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in New Delhi after a gathering along with her Chinese counterpart, Qin Gang, Ms Wong mentioned all international locations had been anticipating China to do the “right thing”.
“I’ve previously said that the world does look to China for its responsible leadership when it comes to Ukraine, particularly given its close relationship to Russia,” she advised reporters.
“I would note that President Zelenskiy himself has said he wants to believe that China will do the right thing and not supply weapons to Russia – and that is not only Australia’s call but the call of all countries.”
Ms Wong mentioned she was “grateful” for the chance to satisfy with Mr Gang.
“I will continue to assert that both parties (Australia and China) can grow our bilateral relationship while safeguarding our national interests if we both navigate our relationship wisely,” she mentioned.
“I was grateful for the opportunity to engage on important matters as well as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.”
Ms Wong mentioned the world should “never forget” that Russia was chargeable for the struggle in Ukraine.
She additionally reaffirmed her requires China to take away restrictions on Australian imports, notably wine and barley.
Ms Wong’s feedback had been bolstered by the US on the G20 Summit, with Secretary of State Anthony Blinken saying that China “cannot publicly present itself as a force for peace while, in one way or another, it continues to fan the flames of the fire that Vladimir Putin lit”.
Prior to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, it formalised a “no-limits” relationship with China.
Source: www.perthnow.com.au
