What does China expect from Europe in resolving the Ukraine crisis?

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Mao Ning. Photo: AP

Earlier, European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen called on China to play a "constructive" role in peacefully resolving the conflict in Ukraine.

“China is willing to discuss with Europe a political solution to the Ukraine crisis. We also hope that Europe will demonstrate strategic independence and political wisdom and take decisive steps to achieve lasting peace and stability in Europe,” the Chinese diplomat commented on the EC President’s call.

China is not a party to the Ukraine crisis, Mao Ning stressed, adding that Beijing is actively supporting a peaceful solution to the conflict.

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will visit China on April 5-7.

China earlier released a 12-point statement, which included its views on a political solution to the Ukraine crisis. It included the need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, resume direct dialogue between Moscow and Kiev, and call for preventing further escalation.

Besides, China also opposes the abuse of unilateral sanctions in the context of the Ukraine conflict, because it does not help resolve the crisis.