2-6-2024 (SINGAPORE) In a fervent appeal at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky implored Asian leaders to participate in a crucial peace summit this month, arguing that forging a path to end Russia’s war would help alleviate global instability.
Addressing the esteemed security forum, Zelensky emphasised that by taking part in the Switzerland-hosted summit, Asian leaders would be directly involved in global defence efforts and unite against the war. The event, slated for the 15th and 16th of June, will cover critical issues such as nuclear weapons, food security, and the release of prisoners of war.
“After the peace summit, when the global majority agrees on the common understandings and steps, the relevant parties will pass these to Russia, aiming for an outcome similar to the grain initiative,” Zelensky told the gathered delegates.
Zelensky’s rare visit to Asia comes as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine enters its third year, with the Ukrainian economy heavily reliant on its grains and oilseeds reaching global markets. The Ukrainian president seeks to ensure the safety of the unilateral Black Sea shipping passage, a critical lifeline for his country’s exports.
In a flurry of international diplomacy, Zelensky has intensified his visits abroad, seeking to secure support among foreign leaders, including those from the so-called Global South, for the upcoming summit. His efforts come as Russia fortifies troop formations near Ukraine’s northeast border and intensifies air attacks.
According to Zelensky, over 100 countries have confirmed their participation in the June summit. Switzerland has strategically scheduled the Ukraine conference on the heels of a meeting of the Group of Seven (G7) nations in Borgo Egnazia, Italy, with several G7 leaders expected to attend. However, reports suggest that US President Joe Biden is not slated to be present.
Notably, China has signalled its absence from the summit, instead joining forces with Brazil in calling for an alternative international conference recognised by both Russia and Ukraine to discuss proposals to halt the war. This move presents a potential challenge to Kyiv’s push for its own Western-backed peace plan.
“Unfortunately, there are also attempts to disrupt the summit,” Zelensky lamented in Singapore. “We do not want to believe that this was a desire for monopolistic power in the world, to deny the global community the opportunity to decide on war and peace.”
