The Global South has raised its voice, expressing concern over the escalating conflict between Russia and Ukraine. This issue was spotlighted during a meeting on the sidelines of the 79th UN General Assembly in New York, where China, Brazil, and other countries from the region jointly issued a statement.

The members of the Friends of Peace platform called on all parties involved in the conflict to adhere to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. They emphasized the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries and taking into consideration the reasonable concerns of all nations. The platform's statement underscored the necessity of peaceful resolution for international conflicts, while also highlighting their readiness to maintain contact with all conflict parties at various levels.

In an effort spearheaded by China and Brazil, a new diplomatic initiative is taking shape. The platform aims to provide an objective and rational voice, playing a constructive role in politically resolving the Ukrainian issue. Beijing's Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in discussions with Celso Amorim, chief advisor to the Brazilian president, emphasized the urgent need to prevent the further escalation of the conflict and called for cooling down the situation.

China and Brazil's active role in forming the Friends of Peace platform was formalized with the creation of a group to devise strategies to end the ongoing war in Eastern Europe. This initiative, however, faced criticism, notably from Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky. Despite these criticisms, the initiative received backing from other notable countries within the Global South.

Subsequent to the meeting in New York, the platform's purpose has been further reinforced with a document outlining six principles intended to negotiate a resolution to the conflict in Europe. Though the governments of Ukraine and Russia were not participants, the meeting saw representation from 15 other countries, with France, Switzerland, and Hungary attending as observers. The statement released after the meeting was signed by 12 countries, emphasizing humanitarian assistance and protection for civilians while highlighting the risks associated with the ongoing conflict.

The platform aims to garner the support of Latin American, Asian, and African countries, reflecting broad international expectations. The initiative is not seen as exclusive but as an inclusive platform for dialogue. China, in particular, is working behind the scenes to persuade diplomats to back peace talks that consider each country's security interests to prevent Russia from losing the war.

The platform's roles and future involvement were made clear by Chinese and Brazilian leaders, ensuring that their actions would not serve as fuel to the fire but rather as a measure to mediate and promote peace negotiations. While Ukraine's President Zelensky has voiced his concerns, other leaders like Celso Amorim have maintained that the pathway to peace might be long and complex, but ultimately achievable.

In a significant development, a joint statement by various nations has highlighted the pressing need to address hostilities in Ukraine, emphasizing respect for sovereignty and adherence to principles of peace and security. This serves as a testament to the Global South's collective effort to seek practical solutions and prevent further deterioration of the conflict. As the Friends of Peace platform evolves, its impact on diplomatic negotiations and international peace efforts remains to be seen.