Political solution in Ukraine stressed

President Xi Jinping meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday at Zhongnanhai in Beijing. The two leaders enjoyed sightseeing and drinking tea, while sharing their thoughts on major international issues. JU PENG/XINHUA President Xi Jinping has reiterated that the fundamental solution to the Ukraine crisis lies in promoting a new type of balanced, effective and sustainable security architecture, highlighting China's readiness to play a positive role in advancing a political settlement of the protracted Russia-Ukraine conflict. Xi made the remarks while meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Zhongnanhai leadership compound in Beijing on Thursday evening. Both leaders had in-depth exchanges on strategic issues of common concern. Xi elaborated on China's consistent position and efforts to promote the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis, saying that in dealing with any major issue, it is necessary to address both the symptoms and the root causes, and to plan for the present as well as for the long term. China supports the convening of an international peace conference, recognized by both Russia and Ukraine, at an appropriate time with equal participation and fair discussion of all options, so as to push for an early political settlement of the Ukraine issue, he said, adding that the nation stands ready to continue to play a constructive role in this regard. Putin briefed Xi about Russia's position on the Ukraine crisis, and expressed appreciation for China's objective, just and balanced position on the issue. While welcoming China to continue to play an important and constructive role in the political settlement of the conflict, he said that Russia is committed to resolving the Ukraine issue through political negotiations, and is willing to demonstrate sincerity and maintain close communication with China in this regard.