China and the European Union (EU) held a summit on the 1st and exchanged views on the Ukraine issue and other matters.
According to China's state-run CCTV, the 23rd China-EU Summit was held via video conference on the day, attended by Premier Li Keqiang of the State Council, Charles Michel, President of the European Council, and Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.
Premier Li and President Michel exchanged opinions on the recent war between Russia and Ukraine.
Regarding the Ukraine situation, Premier Li stated, "Conflicts must be resolved through dialogue and negotiation," adding, "China wishes to continue playing a constructive role together with the international community."
Since China has shown opposition to the sanctions imposed by the US and Europe on Russia, it is believed that they emphasized the adverse effects of such sanctions.
Zhao Lijian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, also said at a regular briefing that "China and many countries including developing nations share the same position," and "China has consistently opposed unilateral sanctions."
On the other hand, the EU side is expected to have conveyed a warning message about the possibility that China’s support for Russia, which invaded Ukraine, could undermine Western sanctions against Russia.
Before the meeting, a senior EU official said they would persuade China about the impact on China-Europe relations if China provides 'excessive support' to Russia.
Premier Li expressed hope to promote the liberalization and facilitation of trade and investment between China and Europe, stating, "Reform and opening-up are China's fundamental national policies."
President Michel and others said, "China and Europe are important members of the multilateral system," adding, "China and Europe must deepen and uphold multilateralism, secure peace and stability, and jointly respond to global challenges."
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