Source says Macron aims for Europe to become a key partner of China

France is preparing to outline a framework for relations between Brussels and Beijing that "benefits both sides" during President Emmanuel Macron's trip to China next week, an official from the Elysee Palace revealed. The source, who requested anonymity, explained that Macrons discussions with President Xi Jinping are intended to ensure Europe is recognized as a significant partner for China rather than being treated as a factor in global tensions.

Macron is scheduled to visit China from Wednesday to Friday, meeting Xi in both Beijing and Chengdu, Sichuan. The Elysee official emphasized that the visit aims to stabilize EU-China ties through proposals for trade rebalancing, security commitments, and the establishment of a new form of partnership.

"The president intends to convey a clear commitment to shaping Sino-European relations based on shared interests," the source said. "This approach is independent of Chinas relations with Russia or the United States and emphasizes Europes role as a major partner, particularly in areas like peace and security in Ukraine."

The official highlighted that Europe and China have complementary needs: China requires advanced semiconductors, Europe seeks secure access to rare earths, and both sides benefit from collaborating on technological innovation. Macron aims to prioritize these mutual interests rather than aligning exclusively with American or Chinese preferences.

Relations will also be discussed within the context of the European Unions China strategy, which views China simultaneously as a partner, competitor, and systemic rival. This multifaceted approach has previously been criticized by Chinese officials for appearing confusing.

One key issue affecting bilateral relations is Chinas position on the Ukraine conflict. France hopes to encourage Beijing to avoid supporting Russia in ways that prolong the war, aligning with Chinas stated goal of helping facilitate a resolution.

Xi will host Macron in both Beijing and Chengdu, marking the third time the Chinese president has arranged an additional meeting outside the capital for the French leadera protocol considered unusual in China and valued highly in Paris.

On Taiwan, France reaffirmed its adherence to the one-China policy and called for all parties to maintain the status quo. The Elysee official stressed the need for restraint, particularly in response to recent comments by the Japanese prime minister suggesting possible military intervention in the event of a PLA action against Taiwan.

Recent diplomatic communications, including a call between Macrons adviser Emmanuel Bonne and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, highlighted Chinas expectation that France supports its core interests in international matters.

Analysis

I view this visit as a deliberate effort by France to reinforce Europe’s strategic relevance in its relationship with China. The stated objective is not symbolic engagement, but the presentation of a concrete framework that addresses trade imbalances, security dialogue, and long-term partnership mechanisms.

From my perspective, the emphasis on mutual economic dependencies—such as European access to rare earths and China’s interest in advanced semiconductors—signals a pragmatic approach. These points are framed as shared interests rather than concessions, aligning with the EU’s broader China strategy.

I note that the Elysee’s messaging consistently separates Sino-European relations from China’s ties with the United States and Russia. This positioning underlines France’s intent to assert European autonomy, particularly on issues of Ukraine and regional security.

The protocol decision for meetings in both Beijing and Chengdu reinforces the political weight Paris assigns to this trip. In my assessment, this context reflects an attempt to stabilize relations while clarifying expectations on core issues such as Ukraine, Taiwan, and adherence to the one-China policy.

Sources:

• Macron wants ties based on Europe being 'a major partner of China', source says