Representatives from 80 countries gathered at the Bürgenstock resort in Switzerland for a two-day conference aimed at finding a path to peace in Ukraine. The joint communique issued at the end of the conference emphasized the importance of upholding the territorial integrity of Ukraine as a basis for any peace agreement to end the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Notably absent from the conference was Russia, the country at the center of the conflict. Despite this, many participants expressed hope that Russia would eventually join in on efforts to achieve peace in the region.
The war in Ukraine, which began with President Vladimir Putin's invasion in 2022, has had devastating consequences, resulting in the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives, displacement of millions, and strained relations between Western nations and Russia, China, and other countries.
While the majority of Western countries and some key developing nations supported the final document, several countries, including India, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia, did not sign it. The document focused on key issues such as nuclear safety, food security, and the exchange of prisoners.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the steps taken at the conference and emphasized that the joint communique remained open for accession by all parties respecting the U.N. Charter.
Despite the challenges and complexities involved, the conference was seen as a crucial first step towards peace. Efforts are now underway to maintain momentum and explore avenues for further dialogue and negotiations to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine.
While the road to peace remains uncertain, the international community continues to work towards finding a resolution that respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine.
For more updates on the situation in Ukraine, visit AP's coverage of the war in Ukraine.
