On Sunday, the G20 summit in India formally adopted the joint declaration without a dissenting voice.

G20 members are working together to tackle global challenges and promote development, China said in its statement.

Beijing has commented on the declaration for the first time.

The UK and US have praised the joint statement, which avoids condemning Russia, a key strategic ally of China, for its war against Ukraine. It has been hailed as a “milestone” by both Russia and the United States. In contrast, Ukraine, which was not represented at the summit, said the declaration was “nothing to be proud of”.

Premier Li Qiang led China’s delegation to the summit after President Xi Jinping did not attend. The two countries remain at odds over a border dispute that resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian and four Chinese soldiers three years ago.

According to Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, China has always supported the G20 and believes its members should “stand in solidarity and cooperate”.