During a significant three-day state visit, French President Emmanuel Macron met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday to discuss pressing global challenges, including the war in Ukraine and trade relations. With France set to assume the G7 presidency next year, this meeting emphasizes the need for stronger collaboration on international issues.
Call for Peace and Multilateralism
Macron is advocating for China’s involvement in pressuring Russia to reach a ceasefire in Ukraine, following recent diplomatic efforts led by the United States. He stated, “We are facing the risk of the disintegration of the international order that brought peace to the world for decades, and in this context, the dialogue between China and France is even more essential than ever.” He expressed hope that China would support a ceasefire initiative aimed at halting attacks on critical infrastructure.
In response, Xi did not directly commit to Macron’s proposal but emphasized, “China supports all efforts that work towards peace,” highlighting the importance of a peace agreement acceptable to all involved parties. Since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine in 2022, China has maintained strong diplomatic ties with Russia and has bolstered economic relations through increased trade.
Expanding Economic Cooperation
During their discussions, Xi announced a significant financial contribution of $100 million (€85 million) to aid Gaza’s humanitarian crisis and support recovery efforts in the region. He stressed the importance of mutual respect and political trust between China and France, advocating for both nations to demonstrate independence and a strategic vision in their diplomatic relations.
Both leaders signed 12 agreements aimed at enhancing economic collaboration in various sectors, including aerospace, nuclear energy, green industries, and artificial intelligence. However, there are concerns that these bilateral agreements may undermine the broader objectives of the European Union, which has been grappling with a substantial trade deficit with China, exceeding €300 billion last year. With China accounting for 46% of France’s total trade deficit, the EU recognizes China as both a partner and a systemic rival.
In light of escalating trade disputes, particularly regarding subsidies for electric vehicles and investigations into European imports, France has sought to protect its interests, securing exemptions for cognac producers amidst ongoing negotiations. As China navigates its own economic challenges, Xi indicated a desire to broaden trade opportunities, asserting that “China’s open door will only open wider” and emphasizing the importance of promoting mutually beneficial cooperation.
Experts suggest that Xi’s visit is strategic, potentially allowing China to strengthen its ties with France at the expense of the European Union’s collective stance. According to Lyle Morris, a senior fellow at the Asia Society, “China seeks to drive a wedge into this EU approach by making deals bilaterally with individual EU members.”