China’s Xi urges talks to settle disputes, opposes sanctions

BEIJING (AP) — Chinese leader Xi Jinping says his government supports talks to resolve international disputes and opposes “wanton use” of sanctions. Xi’s remarks confirm that China is sticking to its stance of refusing to criticize Russia’s invasion of Ukraine despite the conflict’s toll on the Ukrainian population and global security. Beijing has refused to call the conflict an invasion and said Russia was provoked by NATO’s expansion. Despite that, Xi said on Thursday that China remains “committed to respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries” and non-interference in their internal affairs. China has abstained or voted with Russia on recent proposals brought before the United Nations, and Chinese media have amplified Russian disinformation about Ukraine.