The statement published on the website of the Foreign Ministry stressed that in his first activity in Beijing, Lavrov discussed with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, the crisis in Ukraine, including political and diplomatic methods of its settlement and the situation in the Middle East.

Lavrov and Wang expressed satisfaction with the positive dynamics of the Russian-Chinese comprehensive interaction and addressed bilateral issues, including the high-level contacts focused on preparing Russian President Vladimir Putin’s participation in the 3rd Belt and Road Forum.

They also discussed international cooperation and collaboration between Moscow and Beijing aimed at combining the development of the Eurasian Economic Union with China’s New Silk Road.

Putin had previously confirmed his intention to attend the forum.

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