For the last three years, China has repeatedly signalled a willingness to act as a peacemaker in the war in Ukraine. There were rounds of shuttle diplomacy by Beijing's envoy to countries from South Africa to Indonesia.

As the US pursues direct talks with Russia on the Ukraine war, China has indicated that it wants the European Union to have a seat at the negotiating table.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi said China is willing to continue playing a constructive role in the political resolution of the crisis. Read more at straitstimes.com.