Russia, China oppose foreign interference in Arab world

Russia and China said they are opposed to foreign interference in the Arab world and “willful” interpretation of United Nations resolutions on Libya.

The two countries called for peaceful settlement of conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa by “launching broad national dialogue about rebuilding stability and social order and the promotion of democratic and economic reforms,” said a joint statement adopted by Presidents Dmitry Medvedev and Hu Jintao after their talks in the Kremlin on Thursday.

“The international community can extend constructive help to facilitate an early stabilization of the situation in the region… but outside forces should not interfere in internal processes in the countries of the region,” the statement said.

The Russian Foreign Ministry on Thursday reiterated Moscow’s opposition to any U.N. resolution on Syria.

The Russian and Chinese leaders also voiced “concern” over the situation in war-torn Libya.

“To avoid further escalation of violence it is necessary to provide for the meticulous adherence to U.N. Security Council Resolutions 1970 and 1073 by all sides involved and to prevent their willful interpretation and expanded application,” the Russian-Chinese statement said.

Russia and China urged an early ceasefire in Libya and politico-diplomatic settlement. They vowed to pursue “joint efforts in the U.N. Security Council” and support the African Union peace initiatives for Libya.