Norway asks China to pressure Russia

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre made this call during a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Oslo. Støre said that much of their talks focused on the war in Ukraine, according to Reuters.

"China is probably the country with the best and most direct access to the Russian leadership. We expect, hope, and strongly encourage China to use this channel," he said.

According to the official, there is great potential for cooperation between Europe and China, but it remains limited due to Beijing's engagement with Moscow.

Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, speaking earlier on Monday, said that dialogue with China on ending the war in Ukraine had been constructive and promising.

"I'm not a Chinese spokesman. I'm not going to quote them, but there are some hints in their words," the diplomat said when asked if China had hinted that it would help bring Russia into the negotiations.

Norwegian officials stated that negotiations between Russia and Ukraine should begin without any conditions, starting with a ceasefire based on the current front line.

"This, in essence, is a significant concession on Ukraine's part. After all, this is on their territory," the Norwegian prime minister said.

Photo: flickr.com.