China: ready to discuss "joint solution" with Europe

BEIJING - Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning has announced her country's willingness to discuss a political solution to the Ukrainian crisis with the European Union."We hope that the Union demonstrates strategic independence and political wisdom," she said during a briefing on Tuesday.

Earlier, the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, had called on China to play a "constructive" role in the peaceful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine, presumably due to Beijing's ability to influence the Russian Federation.

"We are ready to discuss with the European side a political solution to the crisis. We also expect the European side to demonstrate strategic independence and political wisdom and take decisive steps to achieve long-term peace and stability in Europe," said Mao Ning, commenting on the words of the President of the European Commission.

Mao Ning stressed that China is not a party to the Ukraine crisis, adding that Beijing is actively advocating for a peaceful solution to the conflict.Mao Ning announced on Monday that European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will visit China from April 5 to 7.

China's foreign ministry previously issued a 12-point statement containing a position on a political solution to the Ukrainian crisis. Among the main points: the need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, the resumption of direct dialogue between Moscow and Kiev, the appeal to prevent further escalation. China has also opposed the abuse of unilateral sanctions in the context of the Ukraine conflict, as they do not help resolve the crisis.