Zelensky, Qatar’s Emir discuss ways to end war in Ukraine

DOHA - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the Emir of Qatar on June 5 discussed ways to end Ukraine’s 27-month-old full-scale conflict with Russia and efforts to keep channels of communication open, reported Qatari state news agency QNA.

Mr Zelensky also commented on his talks at the Lusail Palace with Sheikh Tamim Hamad al-Thani, including preparations for

the June peace summit in Switzerland,

to which Russia is not invited.

QNA said the talks focused on developments in the conflict, “including the international community’s efforts to stop the war, protect civilians and keep all channels of communication open to resolve the crisis through dialogue and diplomatic means”.

Efforts to boost bilateral relations were also discussed, the agency said.

Mr Zelensky thanked the Emir for supporting Ukraine’s territorial integrity and for the emirate’s backing of UN resolutions condemning Russia.

He also expressed thanks for Qatar’s efforts in securing the return of Ukrainian children taken to Russia during the conflict and said both sides would continue their cooperation.

Mr Zelensky has been

expanding contacts and travelling widely

in order to persuade more countries, particularly in the Global South, to attend the summit scheduled for June 15 and 16 near the Swiss city of Lucerne.

Ukrainian officials said more than 100 countries and organisations have agreed to attend.

Ukraine’s First Deputy Foreign Minister was in China on June 5 to try to persuade Beijing to attend the gathering.

Russia dismissed the meeting as pointless without its participation. REUTERS