Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin wished that the talks would also lead to ensuring security, stability and lasting peace throughout Europe, reaffirming Beijing’s support for any diplomatic initiatives aimed at such purposes.

The Russian and Ukrainian delegations held a meeting in Gopel on Monday and, according to Moscow authorities, participants found important points to move forward.

The five-hour meeting had as a priority the cease-fire in Ukraine and the end of hostilities.

Participants also agreed to hold a second round of negotiations in the near future after consultations with their respective leaderships.

These are the first talks between the parties following the launch of a Russian military operation in Ukraine on February 24, after the authorities of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic and Lugansk People’s Republic requested help to repel the aggression from Kiev.

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