France's Macron to hold talks with Xi on Ukraine and trade

French President Emmanuel Macron will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday, aiming to push for progress toward a ceasefire in Ukraine and to address ongoing trade issues between the two nations. The French leader arrived with his wife Brigitte on Wednesday, receiving a red carpet welcome from senior Chinese official Wang Yi.

During this visit, Macron is also scheduled to speak with Premier Li Qiang before traveling to Chengdu, the city where two pandas previously on loan to France were recently returned. This trip marks Macrons fourth visit to China since taking office in 2017.

The primary focus of Macrons agenda is urging Xi to use China's influence over Moscow to help bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine, which has now stretched into its fourth winter. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated that France expects China, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, to press Russia toward agreeing to a ceasefire.

Beijing has consistently emphasized dialogue and territorial integrity but has not condemned Russias actions since the 2022 invasion. Western nations accuse China of supporting Moscow economically and supplying components vital for Russias military production. Macron intends to caution Xi against enabling Russias war efforts through any form of support.

The visit follows Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskys recent trip to Paris, where he urged Europe to maintain firm backing for Kyiv. After discussions with Macron, Zelensky reaffirmed that both leaders seek a just resolution to the conflict.

Trade relations will also take center stage in Beijing, as the European Union faces a substantial trade deficit with China. Advisors to the French president stressed the need for increased domestic production in Europe and stronger internal consumption in China.

Macron has repeatedly called for reduced European reliance on China and greater prioritization of European technology development. He has warned against the continent becoming dependent on Chinese or American tech giants.

The French president will conclude his three-day visit on Friday, ending in Chengdu. The French presidency noted that the Chengdu stop is an unusual and highly regarded part of the itinerary. On his previous visit, Macron received an enthusiastic reception from students in Guangzhou, who greeted him with chants, photos, and high-fives.

Author: Natalie Monroe