China's Xi says willing to help resolve Ukraine crisis

Chinese President Xi Jinping addresses the media during an official visit in Bern, Switzerland January 16, 2017. REUTERS/Denis Balibouse

BEIJING (Reuters) - China is willing to play a constructive role in seeking a political resolution to the crisis over Ukraine, Chinese President Xi Jinping told his Ukrainian counterpart, adding that he considers the eastern European country a friend.

China has walked a fine line over Ukraine since Russian annexed Crimea in 2014, saying it respects Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty but that Western powers should take into consideration Russia's legitimate security concerns.