Beijing’s role in fostering peace talks recognized

China will continue to strengthen dialogue and exchanges with all parties to work for a political settlement of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said at a regular news conference on Monday, as Special Representative of the Chinese Government on Eurasian Affairs Li Hui wrapped up a two-week trip in Europe.

During his recent trip to Ukraine, Poland, France, Germany, the European Union headquarters and Russia, Li had extensive contact and exchanges with all sides over the conflict’s political settlement, explained China’s position and listened to opinions and suggestions from all sides, Mao said.

All the countries and organizations Li visited had attached great importance to the trip and fully recognized China’s positive role in promoting peace talks, Mao said.

They also appreciated China’s call for respect of sovereignty and territorial integrity as well as observance of the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter, and expected China to continue to exert its constructive influence, Mao said.

The conflict is still at a critical stage, she said, adding that China will continue to act upon President Xi Jinping’s call for joint efforts in four areas, four principles and three observations, and contribute its part to a political settlement.

Fundamental approach

These proposals put forward by President Xi last year have outlined China’s fundamental approach to the conflict.

Mao also dismissed a Wall Street Journal report that cited Western officials as saying China is proposing a cease-fire that would leave Russia in possession of parts of Ukraine.

The public should refer to the readouts that China has issued on Li’s trip for authentic information, she said.

“I also noted that the Foreign Minister of Ukraine said publicly that he contacted all relevant parties and no country said Special Envoy Li Hui made the remarks as reported by The Wall Street Journal,” Mao said.