The Norwegian Prime Minister called on China to influence Russia to end the war in Ukraine.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre called on China to use its influence with the Russian leadership to help end the war against Ukraine. He stated that improving relations between Europe and China largely depends on Beijing’s stance on Russian aggression.

Stere told reporters this, Reuters reports.

The day before, the Norwegian Prime Minister met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Oslo. According to Støre, a significant portion of the talks was devoted to the situation in Ukraine.

“China is probably the country with the best and most direct access to the Russian leadership. We expect, hope, and urge China to utilize this channel,” the Norwegian Prime Minister emphasized.

Stere also noted that there is potential for deeper cooperation between Europe and China. However, this process is being held back by Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine and Beijing’s partnership with Moscow.

Earlier, Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said that dialogue with China on ways to end the war was “constructive and promising.”

At the same time, Norwegian officials believe the negotiation process should begin after the ceasefire. They believe the current front line, which Norway notes is already a significant concession on Ukraine’s part, could serve as the basis for this.

Earlier, Chinese authorities publicly called on Ukraine and Russia to resume negotiations. Beijing also outlined its vision for this process.