China is ready to play a constructive role in ending the conflict in Ukraine but will support Russia to protect its interests, Foreign Minister Wang Yi told Russian state media.
Moscow and Beijing have deepened their political, military and economic cooperation after Russia ordered a full-scale military offensive in Ukraine in February 2022.
Wang is in Moscow and met with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov. He will also meet President Vladimir Putin during his visit, the Kremlin said.
"China is ready, taking into account the aspirations of the parties involved, to play a constructive role in settling the conflict," he said.
At the start of talks with Lavrov, Wang said, "We will work together to make new contributions to the cause of peace and human development."
Both he and Lavrov welcomed the warm relations between the countries, with Wang adding that their "comprehensive cooperation" would take them to a "new stage."
Lavrov told Wang that "thanks to the two leaders, relations have reached an unprecedented level and continue to develop dynamically in all areas."
China portrays itself as a neutral party in the conflict and says it is not sending lethal aid to either side, unlike the United States and other Western countries. But it is a close political and economic ally of Russia, and NATO members have branded Beijing a "crucial supporter" of Moscow's offensive - which has never been condemned.
Since taking office, US President Donald Trump has pushed for a quick end to the more than three-year-old conflict, but his administration has failed to achieve a breakthrough despite negotiations with both sides.
Putin has rejected a joint U.S.-Ukrainian plan for a 30-day cease-fire, and last month proposed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky be removed from office as part of the peace process. | BGNES
