EU leaders have been worried about China supporting Russia's invasion of Ukraine. They have criticized Beijing for not taking a strong enough stand. They expect Chinese leaders to take responsibility for ending the war.

On Friday, EU chiefs met their Chinese counterparts online for the first time in two years. They urged China to use its influence as a major power to stop Russian aggression. They also made it clear that Beijing must not aid Moscow financially or militarily.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said no European citizen would understand any support for Russia's ability to wage war. She added that such support would lead to a major reputational damage for China in Europe.

Chinese leaders have refused to condemn the invasion. They say they have been promoting peace talks "in their own way." And they have expressed concern that Europe is coordinating its policies with the US.

Chinese President Xi Jinping said he hopes the EU can form its own perception of China, adopt an independent China policy, and work with China for the steady and sustained development of relations.

Both sides agreed that the war threatens global security and the worldwide economy. Von der Leyen stressed that China's trade with the EU is far greater than its economic ties with Russia.