China, Ukraine hold new round of political consultations in Beijing

By Burc Eruygur

ISTANBUL (AA)— China and Ukraine held a new round of political consultations in which they discussed issues on their bilateral agenda and held an exchange of views on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Kyiv said on Thursday.

A statement issued by the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry said that both countries held the next round of bilateral consultations in Beijing, which involved the participation of Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsya and Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Bin.

“The parties discussed current issues on the bilateral agenda, outlined plans for high- and top-level contacts, discussed ways of enhancing trade and economic cooperation, and explored further collaboration within the framework of international organizations,” the statement said.

It said that the two officials reaffirmed mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity as a “cornerstone” of Kyiv-Beijing relations.

It further said that both parties had a “detailed exchange of views” on the current situation surrounding the Russia-Ukraine war, as well as on “international efforts aimed at achieving sustainable and lasting peace.”

The statement added that Kyslytsya also held discussions with “representatives of the Chinese expert and analytical community,” as well as members of the diplomatic corps of partner countries, without providing further details.

Earlier in the day, the deputy foreign minister said he had a “very good” conversation with US Ambassador to China David Perdue.

“It’s always great to feel support of partners like the United States. @POTUS efforts to bring the end to the war and fostering our partnership in the center of the conversation,” Kyslytsya wrote on US social media company X.

China has maintained dialogue with Ukraine despite its close ties with Russia. Earlier this month, Chinese President Xi Jinping said Beijing "will continue to play a constructive role" in finding a settlement for the nearly four-year war.

Meanwhile, in September, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused China of being “silent and distant” on finding a settlement to the conflict.