Norwegian Prime Minister Støre said on Monday that he hopes China can use its relationship with Russia's leadership to help facilitate a negotiated solution to the war in Ukraine and to improve Beijing's relations with Europe.
After meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Oslo, Støre said: "China may be the country that can communicate with the Russian leadership most directly and effectively. We expect, hope, and strongly urge China to make use of this channel."
Støre revealed that most of the bilateral talks focused on the Ukraine issue.
He added: "There is potential for deepening cooperation between Europe and China, but as long as this war continues and as long as China remains a close partner of Russia, these opportunities are limited."
After visiting Denmark, Sweden, and Finland, Wang Yi arrived in Norway. The summary of the meeting released by the Chinese side did not mention Russia, but instead emphasized cooperation in the areas of trade and green technology.