Sanctions not the way forward, China says of Ukraine events

BEIJING, March 7 (Itar-Tass) - China has spoken out to oppose sanction threats in international relations in comments to reporters on events in Ukraine. “In the current situation, we hope the parties will manage to avoid its further worsening and will make joint efforts towards the search for a political settlement. This is the only way out,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said on Friday of the Crimean Supreme Council vote to join Russia as a constituent member and the planned referendum. “We urge all parties in Ukraine to settle issues by peaceful means, to duly protect the interests of all peoples in Ukraine within the framework of law and order through dialogue and consultations,” the Chinese diplomat said, wishing Ukraine to see public peace restored quickly.