russia-ukraine conflict A political settlement in the war means peace for everyone

• Published date: 29 July 2023
• Author: Mikatekiso Kubayi and Hei Sing Tso
• Publication title: Saturday Star

The threat of using cluster ammunition, which is banned by many states, and especially when peace efforts are under way, is a concern for the world

The development suggests a reluctance to find a peaceful resolution and favour the sustenance of the conflict instead. This is a concern for the entire globe because an escalation in the conflict could lead to the use of increasingly more deadly weapons and engulf people worldwide who were never party to the cause of the conflict.

The peace mediation efforts by Africa, China and Brazil, among others, need global support to end the conflict between Russia and Ukraine as soon as possible and refocus the nations of the world on reconstruction and development.

When the African leaders’ delegation met President Vladimir Putin last month during a mediation visit in Moscow, they mentioned part of the 12 points in China’s proposal for a political settlement of the conflict. Putin agreed with this.

A political settlement through dialogue seems more urgent now that more dangerous weapons are signalling an escalation in the conflict.

China and Africa can collaborate to accelerate the peace process. When the conflict began, the first action by Africans was to call for a cease- fire. Similarly, the second point in China’s proposal is ceasing hostilities. In this way, Africans and Chinese have similar traditions towards conflict resolution.

For Africans, it is not the time to investigate who should be blamed for the conflict. It is not useful for peace. Stopping the shooting should be a start. Any cause of international conflict is complex, and the issue of responsibility should be reserved for later negotiation.

On the other hand, the withdrawal of troops, as demanded by the West, is not sensible. Motivating both sides to cease fire immediately is a challenge for Africa, China and everyone making an effort for peace.

One possible approach is to propose local and short-term cease-fires for humanitarian assistance or exchange of prisoners of war (POW). A strategic task is how to convey this message through diplomacy and to convince others that this is the better route to take.

African leaders have expressed concern about disruptions to the supply of grains and fertilisers for the agriculture industry in Africa and food security generally.

In China’s proposal, grain exports and supply chains are also mentioned.

For Africa and China, the Russia- Ukraine conflict should not be treated as a local problem or solely as a European...