China's Xi and France's Macron vow to work together on international crises and trade

BEIJING China and France have affirmed plans to intensify their cooperation on major international challenges, including the conflict in Ukraine and trade relations, as France prepares to assume the G7 presidency next year. French President Emmanuel Macron met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday morning during a three-day state visit centered on diplomacy and economic ties.

Macron emphasized the urgency of international dialogue, saying, The risk of unraveling the global order that has maintained peace for decades is real. In this context, China-France dialogue is more critical than ever. He urged Beijing to help push for at least a ceasefire in Ukraine, particularly a moratorium on attacks targeting essential infrastructure.

Xi did not directly respond to the call regarding Ukraine, but stated that China supports all initiatives aimed at peace and called for a resolution acceptable to all involved parties. While China has maintained diplomatic and economic support for Russia, Xi also announced a $100 million aid package to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and support reconstruction efforts.

Xi highlighted the importance of mutual political trust and strategic independence, saying, Regardless of external circumstances, major powers must uphold independence, strategic foresight, and mutual support on core and critical issues. He added that China and France should champion multilateralism and act responsibly on the global stage.

Trade discussions were another major focus. Xi noted that both countries will pursue deeper economic collaboration in aerospace, aviation, nuclear energy, green industries, and artificial intelligence. Twelve agreements were signed, including initiatives for panda conservation and academic and research exchanges.

China represents a significant portion of Frances trade deficit, and the EU maintains a complex relationship with China as a partner, competitor, and systemic rival. Despite previous disputes, France secured exemptions for most of its cognac producers earlier this year. Xi expressed Chinas intent to expand market access and guide cross-border industrial and supply chain development, emphasizing continued EU-China cooperation.

Experts have suggested that China aims to strengthen bilateral ties with France as a key European economy, potentially challenging broader EU cohesion. Beijing is looking to create leverage within the EU by negotiating directly with individual member states, said Lyle Morris, a senior fellow at the Asia Society.

Macron and his wife arrived in Beijing on Wednesday evening and were welcomed at the Great Hall of the People on Thursday by a military band and children waving flags. The leaders also attended the closing session of a Franco-Chinese business forum. Macrons schedule includes meetings with Zhao Leji, chairman of the National Peoples Congress, and Premier Li Qiang, before traveling to Chengdu in Sichuan province, home to the Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda. The center houses Yuan Meng, the first giant panda born in France and named by Brigitte Macron. France recently returned a pair of pandas to China after 13 years, during which the pandas had three cubs.

Analysis: Strengthening China-France Ties Amid Global Challenges

The recent state visit by French President Emmanuel Macron to China underscores the evolving dynamic between the two nations, particularly in the context of global diplomacy and economic collaboration. As France prepares to take over the G7 presidency next year, the importance of this visit lies not only in bilateral agreements but also in the broader international implications, particularly concerning the Ukraine conflict and global trade relations.

Macron’s call for China’s active role in pushing for a ceasefire in Ukraine highlights the critical role that Beijing can play in shaping the future of the conflict. While President Xi Jinping did not give a direct response to this specific request, his emphasis on multilateralism and peace initiatives reflects China’s commitment to maintaining a level of diplomatic influence on global crises. This cautious approach aligns with China’s long-standing strategy of fostering international peace while balancing its relationships with key players like Russia.

On the economic front, the agreements signed between China and France reveal the depth of their cooperation, especially in industries like aerospace, nuclear energy, and artificial intelligence. With China’s growing market significance, France stands to benefit from increased access, though the relationship remains complex, especially as the EU contemplates its broader stance toward China. Experts warn that China’s strategy of engaging individual EU states, rather than the bloc as a whole, could undermine EU cohesion and shift the balance of influence within Europe.

In conclusion, while the China-France partnership is poised to strengthen, the real challenge for Europe lies in maintaining unity amid external pressures. Macron’s diplomatic efforts reflect France’s desire to position itself as a key player in global geopolitics, yet navigating the intricacies of EU-China relations will require careful diplomacy in the coming years.

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• China's Xi and France's Macron pledge cooperation on global crises and trade