Macron seeks China’s help on Ukraine as Xi ‘willing to call Zelensky’

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• The French president and Ms Von der Leyen arrived in Beijing on Wednesday and met Mr Xi on Thursday in what is seen as part of a broader effort from the European leaders to engage with China, even as Beijing continued to engage with Moscow and maintain its “neutral” stance.

• “The Russian aggression in Ukraine has dealt a blow to [international] stability,” Mr Macron told Mr Xi. “I know I can count on you to bring back Russia to reason and everyone back to the negotiating table.

• France said the discussions between the leaders were “frank and constructive”, while China described them as “friendly” and “in-depth”.

• but did not expect a big shift in the Chinese position.

• A diplomatic source said Mr Macron had urged Mr Xi not to provide weapons to Russia, and that Mr XI had replied that it was not his war.

• China is eager to ensure Europe does not follow what it sees as US-led efforts to contain its rise.

• China’s president expressed willingness to speak to Volodymyr Zelensky, Ursula von der Leyen said, if the “conditions and time are right”.