French President Emmanuel Macron and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping both called for Russia-Ukraine peace talks to take place “as soon as possible”.
Macron says ‘counting’ on Xi to ‘bring Russia to its senses’
In a press conference following the signing ceremony, Macron stated that he and Xi had reached an agreement on principles during their discussions, which centred on the conflict in Ukraine. In a meeting with Xi Jinping, a close ally of Vladimir Putin, French and EU leaders tried to make Europe’s case for ending the war in Ukraine on Thursday.
President Emmanuel Macron met with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday, hoping to persuade China not to back Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Xi urged “restraint from all political partners” in Ukraine, saying China hoped for peace through a “political solution.” In addition, the Chinese chief condemned the bombing of civilians in Ukraine. “We must protect civilians and avoid the use of nuclear weapons,” he said.
Macron was more forceful than his colleague in condemning “humanitarian violations” in Ukraine and opposing the use of nuclear weapons.
The French president also called for peace talks, saying “the need to build sustainable, long-term peace” in Europe relied upon a “much more demanding conversation” to be had with Russia through diplomatic avenues. Without naming China directly, he ended with a call for countries around the world to “take responsibility” for peace, during a “worrying time”.
Western pressure is mounting on China to help push for peace in Ukraine
