Xi and Macron Unite for Global Cooperation and Trade
China and France committed to enhancing collaboration on global matters such as the war in Ukraine and trade, as France gears up to assume the presidency of the Group of Seven next year. French President Emmanuel Macron convened with China’s Xi Jinping on Thursday morning during a three-day state visit that emphasizes trade and diplomacy. The French leader aims to engage Beijing in urging Russia to agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine, following a recent surge of diplomatic efforts surrounding a U.S.-led peace initiative. “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,” Macron said Thursday. “I hope that China will join our call, our efforts to achieve, as soon as possible, at the very least a ceasefire in the form of a moratorium on strikes targeting critical infrastructure,” he said. Xi did not respond directly to France’s call, but stated that “China supports all efforts that work towards peace and called for a peace deal that all parties will accept.” China has offered robust diplomatic backing to Russia following its invasion of Ukraine and has further bolstered its support through heightened trade relations. Xi also announced that China will provide $100 million to assist with Gaza’s ongoing humanitarian crisis and to support the territory’s recovery and reconstruction.
Xi emphasized the importance of fostering deeper political trust with France through mutual support, while also highlighting the need for each side to maintain its independence. “No matter how the external environment changes, both sides as major powers should always demonstrate independence and strategic vision, show mutual understanding and mutual support for each other on core matters and major critical issues,” he said. China and France must showcase their sense of responsibility, elevate the banner of multilateralism … and resolutely position themselves on the right side of history, he added. Trade emerged as a significant point of discussion on Thursday’s agenda. During the joint appearance, Xi stated that both sides had reached an agreement to enhance economic cooperation in sectors including aerospace, aeronautics, and nuclear energy, along with emerging fields such as green industries and AI. They signed 12 agreements, including ones that call for cooperation on a new round of panda conservation efforts and exchanges in higher education and research. The European Union bloc recorded a significant trade deficit with China, exceeding 300 billion euros ($348 billion) in the previous year. China accounts for 46% of France’s overall trade deficit.
France and the European Union have characterized China as both a partner and a competitor, while also recognizing it as a systemic rival. In recent years, trade disputes have emerged across various industries following the EU’s investigation into subsidies for Chinese electric vehicles. In retaliation, China launched its own inquiries into imports of European brandy, pork, and dairy products. However, in July, France successfully secured an exemption for the majority of cognac producers. China, grappling with its economic downturn, is indicating a desire for increased business engagement. “China’s open door will only open wider,” Xi said, emphasizing that the country plans to expand market access, open up areas of investment, and guide the cross-border, orderly, and rational layout of industrial and supply chains. Xi emphasized the importance of both sides continuing to foster mutually beneficial cooperation between China and the EU. Experts have indicated that they anticipate Beijing will leverage this visit to enhance its bilateral relations with one of Europe’s key economies, potentially undermining the broader EU framework. China aims to undermine this EU strategy by forging agreements directly with individual EU member states, stated Lyle Morris.
Macron and his spouse Brigitte Macron arrived in Beijing on Wednesday evening. On Thursday morning, Macron was welcomed by a military band and groups of children waving flags at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People. On Thursday, the two leaders were present at the conclusion of a Franco-Chinese business forum. Macron’s agenda features discussions with Zhao Leji, chairman of the National People’s Congress, and Chinese Premier Li Qiang. The presidential couple of France will subsequently journey to Chengdu, located in the Sichuan province of China. Chengdu hosts the Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, where Yuan Meng, the first giant panda born in France and named by first lady Brigitte Macron, currently resides. Last month, France returned to China a pair of star giant pandas that had resided in the country for 13 years and had given birth to three cubs.
