BEIJING CALLS FOR CALM IN UKRAINE CONFLICT

BEIJING, NOVEMBER 10 /SRNA/ – China's Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Sun Lei, has called on the parties involved to work toward de-escalating the conflict in Ukraine, building on the current positive momentum in their contacts.

Sun said the Ukraine issue was nearing a critical moment for a negotiated settlement, as international calls for a peaceful resolution through diplomatic channels grew louder.

"The recent intensive contacts and exchanges of views among the key players have sent some positive signals," Sun said.

Addressing the UN Security Council, Sun said China supported all efforts conducive to peace. He said he hoped the parties involved would show readiness to compromise, maintain the positive momentum and contribute to a political settlement of the crisis as soon as possible, China Media Group reported.

He noted that Russia and Ukraine had recently held another prisoner-of-war exchange and agreed on a localized ceasefire for humanitarian reasons, and said such developments deserved recognition.

"We call on the parties to the conflict to put people's lives first, show calm and restraint, and effectively protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, especially women, children and other victims of the conflict. At the same time, humanitarian efforts need to be stepped up to help the people affected by the crisis overcome their difficulties," Sun said.

He added that Russia and Ukraine should strictly abide by applicable international law and provide prisoners of war and detainees with basic living conditions, medical care and dignified treatment.

Sun said both sides had recently set out their positions on how to reach a political settlement of the crisis. He said the international community had also made significant diplomatic efforts to promote peace and negotiations.

"Russia, Ukraine and the US are holding a new round of trilateral talks. The parties involved should show political will, stay in contact and communication, gradually build consensus and work together toward a comprehensive, lasting and binding peace agreement," Sun said.

He said China had consistently held the same position on the Ukraine issue and had always been committed to promoting peace, negotiations and a political settlement of the conflict.

He also said China maintained close communication with Russia, Ukraine and other parties involved. He added that it was actively engaged in mediation diplomacy and was making continuous efforts to create the conditions for peace talks and to build consensus on peace.

"China is ready to continue working with the international community and to make efforts to achieve an early ceasefire, a cessation of hostilities and lasting peace and stability in the region," Sun said.