Xi Jinping encourages Emmanuel Macron to 'take a strong stance on the correct side of history'

During a meeting on Thursday, Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed his willingness to collaborate with French President Emmanuel Macron to "remove interference" and foster a stable bilateral relationship. The discussions are expected to cover topics including trade.

Xi highlighted the fast-paced changes occurring globally and stressed that both nations "should act responsibly, uphold multilateral principles, and firmly stand on the right side of history." He emphasized that China and France have consistently prioritized the fundamental interests of their peoples and the broader international community, promoting equal dialogue and open cooperation.

He added that such efforts could strengthen ties more reliably and support the development of a fair and orderly multipolar world. "Both China and France are independent major powers with a farsighted perspective, contributing constructively to a multipolar world," Xi said.

Macron acknowledged that while differences exist, the two nations have found "a path to convergence" on certain issues and stressed the responsibility to resolve disagreements.

The French president is on a three-day visit to China, his fourth, traveling from Beijing to Chengdu in Sichuan province. He is scheduled to meet Xi again on Friday. Xi greeted Macron at the Great Hall of the People with a formal ceremony that included a guard of honour and children waving the flags of both nations. The leaders exchanged brief remarks before entering private discussions.

The talks follow a meeting between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, where Wang emphasized the need for stronger communication and cooperation amid complex global challenges.

The two sides also discussed the conflict in Ukraine. Wang noted, "Although differences remain among the parties, efforts should focus on encouraging dialogue rather than creating obstacles."

Tensions between China and Europe have risen over various issues, including Beijing's control over critical minerals, industrial overcapacity, and the situation in Ukraine. Trade disputes also escalated after the EU imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, prompting retaliatory tariffs on European goods, including French cognac. France later negotiated a minimum price agreement exempting most of its cognac exports from these tariffs, which both countries welcomed.

France has also supported more protective trade policies at the EU level, advocating tariffs on Chinese imports such as steel and electric vehicles.

Author: Aiden Foster