EU official describes Xi-Zelenskyy phone call as 'good' development

By Omer Tugrul Cam

BRUSSELS (AA) - A European Union official on Wednesday described a phone call between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Chinese President Xi Jinping as a "good" development.

The official, who requested anonymity, told reporters in Brussels that it is "good" that communication channels are open between the two countries.

Regarding China's intention to send special representatives to Ukraine and other countries, the official said they are waiting for more details on the initiative.

Earlier Wednesday, Xi told Zelenskyy in their first phone call since Russia launched the war on Ukraine last year that China will send a special representative to Ukraine, saying "China is consistent and clear-cut in its readiness to develop bilateral relations with Ukraine. The two sides need to carry forward the tradition of mutual respect and sincerity and take the China-Ukraine strategic partnership forward."

Zelenskyy said his call with Xi was "long and meaningful."

"I had a long and meaningful phone conversation with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. I believe that the conversation as well as the appointment of the ambassador of Ukraine to China will give a powerful impetus to the development of our bilateral relations," he wrote on Twitter.