German Foreign Minister Johann Waddeful has urged Beijing to use its influence over Moscow during consultations on a ceasefire in Ukraine, DPA reported, BTA reports.
“No other country has as much influence over Russia as China and is able to use its weight to ensure that Russia is finally ready for serious negotiations on respecting Ukraine's sovereignty“, Waddeful said in Berlin ahead of his first visit to China.
“It is in our interest for China to contribute to achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine“, he added. China has been accused by the West of supporting Russia's military efforts while formally insisting on neutrality.
Vadeful said that dialogue with China was essential at a time of rising international tensions, with freedom, security and prosperity closely linked to Beijing. "This means that it is in our interest to hold this dialogue - in a spirit of direct exchange and fairness," he said.
During his visit, Vaudeful will also discuss Beijing's restrictions on the export of rare earth elements, which are critical to German industry. He will be received by Vice President Han Zheng and will hold talks with Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Commerce Minister Wang Wentao, and Liu Haixin, chairman of the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China.
The topics of discussion will include the situation in the Middle East, concerns about the South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait. Vaddeful stressed that a change in the status of Taiwan can only be achieved through a peaceful settlement.
He said that China, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, has a responsibility to maintain peace and stability, as well as to uphold the principles of the UN Charter.
The minister had originally planned to visit China in late October, but canceled after not receiving confirmation of meetings with key leaders. Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil was the first German representative to visit the country in mid-November, and Chancellor Friedrich Merz is planning a visit to Beijing early next year.