President Xi Jinping told Russian President Vladimir Putin during a phone call on Wednesday that all parties should work towards resolving the crisis in Ukraine "in a responsible manner", broadcaster CCTV reported.

In their call, Xi reiterated China's willingness to help resolve the situation.

The president also said Beijing is "willing to continue to support [Russia] on issues concerning core interests and major concerns such as sovereignty and security", CCTV reported.

Xi, during the call, praised the "good momentum of development" in bilateral relations since the start of the year "in the face of global turmoil and changes".

After the call, the Kremlin said both sides had agreed to expand cooperation in energy, finance and industry as Moscow faces unprecedented Western sanctions over Ukraine.

"It was agreed to expand cooperation in energy, finance, industry, transport and other spheres, taking into account the global economic situation that has become more complicated due to the West's illegitimate sanctions policy," the Kremlin said in a readout of the leaders' call.

On Friday, China and Russia opened a new cross-border bridge in the far east which they hope will further boost trade. (Reuters/AFP)
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Last updated: 2022-06-15 HKT 22:05