PARIS

French President Emmanuel Macron has reiterated his stance on dialogue with Russia, saying he remains willing for talks with Moscow.

At a New Year’s reception at the Elysee Palace, Macron said people have criticized him for “speaking to Russia,” French news channel BFMTV reported.

“I will continue to speak to Russia,” asserted Macron, who has been one of the few Western leaders to hold direct talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin since the Ukraine war began last February.

On China’s influence in Russia, he said all countries should have “a position of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

“But if we turn a blind eye to imperialist wars, who will defend a free and stable international order?” he said.

* Writing and contributions by Aysu Bicer​​​​​​​