China calls for dialogue

China on Jan 29 called for dialogue among Ukraine's various parties after the government was dissolved to calm mass rallies that have turned to violence.

"As a strategic partner, China respects the choice of the Ukrainians and supports the government and the people's efforts in preserving social harmony and stability," Foreign Ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said.

She called on parties in the country to solve differences via dialogue, and to resume stability and social order.

Hua also appealed to the international community to play a constructive role.

Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych accepted Prime Minister Mykola Azarov's resignation on Jan 28, so as to "create an additional possibility" for a political compromise to peacefully resolve the conflict.

Protests in Ukraine turned violent on Jan 22, when radical activists attacked riot police with fireworks and petrol bombs.

The mass rallies started in November, following a government decision to put on hold an association agreement with the European Union and opt for closer relations with Russia.

Xinhua

(China Daily 01/30/2014 page11)