You're reading: Chinese ambassador: Russia-Ukraine conflict contravenes interests of both countries

The escalation of tensions between Russia and Ukraine is bad for peace and stability in the region and contravenes interests of people in both countries, Chinese Ambassador to Russia Li Hui told Interfax in an interview.

“The escalating conflict between the two countries not just contravenes fundamental interests of their people but also harms peace and stability in the region,” Li said.

As for Beijing’s reaction to the Kerch incident, Li said “the Chinese Foreign Ministry made a statement on the aggravation of relations between Russia and Ukraine immediately after the incident in the strait and urged sides to show self-control, prevent an escalation of tensions, and properly resolve their disagreements through dialogue and consultations.”

“China invariably underlines the need for solving conflicts through talks. Hopefully, certain countries that are concerned about the state of Russia-Ukraine relations will demonstrate a high degree of responsibility and, acting on the basis of the principle of non-interference in internal affairs, will take effort towards reconciling the sides and play a constructive role for the sake of keeping peace and stability in the region,” Li said.