BEIJING - China's foreign minister, Qin Gang, stated on Tuesday that the Ukraine crisis appears to be driven by an invisible force that is promoting the prolongation and escalation of the conflict.

On the eve of the annual meeting of the Chinese parliament, Qin argued that the "invisible hand" is "using the Ukraine crisis to serve certain geopolitical agendas." He urged immediate dialogue.

"Conflict, penalties, and pressure won't make the issue go away...

The peace process should start as soon as possible, and all parties' legitimate security concerns should be taken into consideration," "said Qin.

In the midst of escalating hostilities between Beijing and the European Union, which has questioned China's sincerity as a mediator when it has refused to name Russia as the aggressor in the conflict, Qin reiterated China's position on the Ukraine war.

In addition, Qin claimed that despite loud warnings from American officials about vague "consequences" for China should it provide lethal aid to Russia in the Ukraine conflict, Beijing has not given weapons to either side.

"China has not given weapons to either side of the conflict and is not a party to the crisis. What basis does this talk of sanctions, blame, and threats against China have? "This must stop immediately."