Closing Thoughts

Where will the Russian-Ukrainian conflict go? And what is China’s role in this matter? First of all, the Russia-Ukraine conflict may become a protracted war, which may continue to influence the world for a decade or more. The prospect of a quick resolution is dim. Second, after this conflict, Europe’s strength will certainly be diminished, and the continent will face tougher internal divisions. There were even differences within certain countries. See no further than how in Germany many people hold Angela Merkel accountable for the current situation, because she tried to integrate Russia into Europe. Third, China’s role is different from that of Russia: the background of the Russia-Ukraine conflict is not applicable to China or its neighbors. Likewise, though there are occasional conflicts minor conflicts in Asia, the region has not partaken in any of the four recent wars that Europe has experienced. Nor has it endured anything similar at home—something that was possible thanks to China’s peaceful rise. Finally, because Europe will come out of this conflict weakened, the United States may use this conflict to further reverse globalization and turn its gaze towards the Indo-Pacific. China and the EU should and will cooperate to promote the construction of a mutually beneficial European security mechanism. After all, both China and the EU support peace and UN-centered multilateralism; the Helsinki spirit has many similarities with China’s new security concept of the community with a shared future for mankind.

Wang Yiwei is Jean Monnet Chair Professor, Director of the Institute of International Affairs, and Director of the Center for European Union Studies at Renmin University of China.

Duan Mingnong is a graduate student of the School of International Studies at Renmin University of China.

Image: Reuters.