To each of these countries, Obama promised what they wanted to hear
The US Embassy in Ukraine has published information about the content of phone conversations between President of the US Barack Obama and the leaders of Japan and China on the situation in Ukraine. In particular, the conversation of Obama with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on March 7 says: “The two leaders agreed that Russia’s actions are a threat to international peace and security, and emphasised the importance of maintaining the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine. They agreed to work with other partners in G-7 and insist on Russia complying with its commitments and promises regarding Ukraine’s sovereignty, including those in accordance with the UN Charter and the Agreement on stationing since 1997. They indicated that Russia has an opportunity to resolve the situation by diplomatic means so that it is in the interests of Russia, Ukraine, and the international community. Both leaders have also agreed to work on a bilateral basis through the International Monetary Fund to support the Government of Ukraine in stabilising its economy and preparing for the elections in May. The President noted that his visit to Japan in April will be an important event that will contribute to many diplomatic, defence, and commercial initiatives that promote the United States and Japan in Asia and around the world.” Thus, Japan may count on the US support in the diplomatic, defence and trade initiatives.
In the evening of March 9th Obama had a telephone conversation with the President of China Xi Tszynpinom. As the MFA reported on its content: “Both leaders… have assured on their mutual interest in decreasing tension and in determining peaceful solutions to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Both leaders agreed on the importance of protecting principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity within Ukraine as well as in broader context of functioning of the international system. The President noted about his priority goal of restoring sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, as well as the fact that Ukrainian people could choose their own future without any foreign intervention. Both leaders committed themselves to stay in touch during the further course of events.”
It was important for China to hear about the protection of principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity, not only within Ukraine, and “in a broader context.” This wider context obviously includes contiuation of non-recognition of Taiwan as a separate state.
http://espreso.tv/new/2014/03/11/ssha_skhylyly_na_bik_ukrayiny_yaponiyu_i_knr
Translated by Borys Vasylyshyn, edited by Alya Shandra
