French President Emmanuel Macron called on Chinese President Xi Jinping to use his influence with Russia to end the conflict in Ukraine during their meeting in Beijing.
In response, Xi urged both sides to resume peace talks and find a political solution.
Macron also asked Xi to press Russia to comply with international rules on non-proliferation of nuclear weapons, while Xi called for all countries to respect their commitments on nuclear non-use.
The EU leaders’ visit to China comes amid souring relations over issues such as accusations of human rights abuses in Xinjiang, a stalled investment pact and China’s reluctance to condemn Russia over its Ukraine invasion.
Macron also urged Europe to resist reducing trade and diplomatic ties with China. Both leaders witnessed the signing of deals, including Airbus opening a new assembly line in China, during the visit.