Welcoming Russia-Ukraine Talks, Senior Diplomat: China Always Supports Diplomatic Efforts

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin. (Twitter/@MFA_China)

JAKARTA - China welcomes the start of talks between Russia and Ukraine, hoping this process will continue, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesman Wang Wenbin said at a briefing on Tuesday.

"China has always supported and encouraged diplomatic efforts to facilitate a peaceful settlement of the Ukraine crisis, welcoming the start of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine," he said.

"We note that the parties have agreed to hold a new round of talks in the near future. We hope that the parties will continue to maintain the dialogue and negotiation process," Wang continued.

He also said China hopes that Russia and Ukraine aspire to a political solution that will take into account legitimate issues in the security sphere of both sides, and will facilitate long-term order and stability in Europe.

Yesterday, the Chinese government through Wang urged the parties to the conflict in Ukraine to return to the path of negotiations and implement a political solution to the Ukrainian crisis.

"We ask all parties to return to the path of diplomatic negotiations and a political settlement as soon as possible. We also recommend a comprehensive settlement of the Ukraine issue through negotiations and consultations," Wang said.

He also noted that China was monitoring the situation in Ukraine and noted Russian President Vladimir Putin's decision to put Russian deterrence forces on special alert.

"We call on all relevant parties to show calm and restraint and to avoid further escalation," he stressed.

To note, the Russian-Ukrainian talks were held on Monday and lasted five hours. Belarusian Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei said he hoped the two delegations would meet again for another round of talks on the Belarusian-Polish border in a few days.