The Epoch Times’ Nan Su looks at the impact from the comments, and the uproar that followed from European countries.
For the past few months, China has been attempting to position itself as a peace broker and potential diplomatic rival to the United States. However, one unfortunate comment from its ambassador to France has suddenly created a stir with other countries.
Lu Shaye, who serves as said ambassador, recently made note in an interview that former Soviet countries do not have “effective status in international law.” This came after being questioned whether Crimea, illegally annexed by Russia back in 2014, was part of Ukraine.
As a result, several countries, including Baltic states, have made claims of diplomatic consternation, including Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia. In fact, those countries noted they will be summoning Chinese representatives for clarification.
The Chinese embassy was quick to respond. “On territorial sovereignty, the Chinese side’s position is consistent and clear. The Chinese side respects the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries and upholds the purposes and principles of the UN Charter,” it noted. It also made clear that Shaye’s comments were “not a statement of policy, but an expression of personal views.”
But the real question comes from Shaye’s comments showing just what kind of “unlimited collaboration” is happening between China and Russia. It’s no secret that the country has spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin on a number of occasions, and while it has positioned itself as a potential “mediator” between Russia and Ukraine, it’s also promised support with weapons to the former.
Joining us now to speak about this is Nan Su, an investigative reporter for The Epoch Times. He’s written about China on multiple occasions, keeping tabs on the actions of leader Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). His expertise should prove useful in this matter.
Q&A:
- First off, what kind of problems do you think Shaye’s comments have brought to the forefront? Why are countries so bothered by what he noted about Crimea?
- What does it say as a whole about China attempting to present itself as a mediator between Russia and Ukraine, despite lending military support to Russia?
- Does this put a dent in Xi Jinping’s plan to position China as a diplomatic rival to the United States? Could things become worse for China as they attempt to continue working with Russia? Or will Jinping “smooth” things over?
- What do you think will happen to Shaye as a result of the comments? Do you foresee any punishment or removal from their role?
- Do you believe the United States will make any sort of statement over the matter? Or will the Judiciary Committee continue with their investigation as planned?
- Speaking of what’s going on with China, you recently contributed to a new Epoch Times documentary called The Final War. Tell us more about it and why it’s such a compelling subject with everything that’s happening right now.
- Where can we learn more about you and see your work over on The Epoch Times?
You can visit our official website at http://www.theepochtimes.com. There are also various documentaries available over on Epoch TV.
About Nan Su:
Nan Su is a senior investigative reporter for the Epoch Times, with an eye and focus on Chinese politics and government deception. Nan is highly knowledgeable in a variety of subjects, including the Coronavirus and all things happening overseas. His reports have run on The Epoch Times for some time now and gained a following based on his expertise in delivering thorough results.
CONTACT: Jerry McGlothlin at: geraldmcg@outlook.com or 919-437-0001.
