Xi urges Europe to help Russia, Ukraine reach peace through talks
China's President says that it is necessary to make every effort to avoid the intensification and expansion of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
Chinese President Xi Jinping considered on Monday that relevant parties should support Russia and Ukraine in achieving peace through negotiations and prevent the war from intensifying.
Earlier in the day, Xi had an online conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, during which they discussed the bilateral cooperation between China and Germany and the China-EU dialogue. The two leaders also discussed the situation in Ukraine.
"China welcomes all efforts of the international community that facilitates the ceasefire and negotiations, the relevant parties should support Russia and Ukraine in reaching peace through negotiations," the state-run China Central Television quoted Xi as saying.
The Chinese leader pointed out that the conflict in Ukraine had brought Europe to a critical point.
"It is necessary to make every effort to avoid the intensification and expansion of the conflict, which could lead to a situation beyond repair," Xi warned.
He also suggested that Europeans should be responsible for their own security, adding that China supports Europe's playing a positive role in the peace process.
On February 24, Russia launched a military operation in Ukraine after the breakaway republics of Donetsk and Lugansk appealed for help in defending themselves against Ukrainian troops.