UNITED NATIONS, Nov. 21 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese envoy on Thursday called for a negotiated settlement of the Ukraine crisis.

The Ukraine crisis continues unabated, with ground combat operations still ongoing. As winter approaches, people in the conflict zone face the double whammy of warfare and bitter cold, creating a deeply concerning humanitarian situation, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations.

"China, once again, calls on the parties to the conflict to exercise restraint, strictly comply with international humanitarian law, and effectively protect civilians and civilian infrastructure," he told the UN Security Council. "Dialogue and negotiations represent the only viable path to resolve the Ukraine crisis. We urge the parties to demonstrate political will and swiftly embark on the path of negotiated settlement."

He called on the international community to scale up humanitarian assistance, actively promote peace talks, and continue creating favorable conditions for a political solution.

China's position on the Ukraine issue has been very clear and consistent, said Fu. China has actively engaged with all relevant parties to push for peace and negotiations. China stands ready to communicate with all parties and play a constructive role in achieving an early ceasefire and advancing the political settlement of the crisis, he said. Enditem