Chinese President Xi Jinping is in France for a state visit, as announced by official Chinese television CCTV. During his visit, Xi will mark 60 years of diplomatic relations between France and China, meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss trade disputes, particularly related to Chinese state subsidies in various industries.
Emmanuel Macron has acknowledged that Europeans are divided on their approach towards China, with some viewing it as an opportunity while others seek to protect national interests and achieve reciprocity in trade relations. The European Union has been investigating Chinese state subsidies, leading to tensions with China. During the visit, Macron is expected to confront Xi on issues such as French cognac subsidies and push for better protection of national security interests.
Xi and Macron will participate in a Franco-Chinese economic forum and engage in a series of diplomatic meetings, including discussions on the Olympic truce for conflicts during the Paris Games and efforts to resolve the Ukraine crisis. Xi emphasized in an article that China and France share a long-standing partnership and have collaborated in various sectors, making significant contributions to global civilization.
Macron expressed gratitude to China for its support during the COVID-19 pandemic, acknowledging that Beijing played a crucial role in providing medical supplies and expertise to combat the virus. He also praised China’s commitment towards promoting peace efforts in Africa through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
The two leaders also discussed climate change, with Xi stressing the importance of international cooperation in addressing this global challenge. They agreed to work together towards reducing carbon emissions and increasing green energy investments. Additionally, they pledged to strengthen bilateral ties between France and China by enhancing cultural exchanges and promoting tourism.
During his visit to France, Xi also addressed concerns about human rights abuses against minority groups such as Uighurs in China’s Xinjiang region. While he defended Beijing’s policies towards these groups as necessary measures against terrorism, he emphasized that China respects all ethnic groups’ rights under Chinese law.
In conclusion, Xi Jinping’s visit to France highlights the deepening relationship between these two countries despite ongoing tensions over trade disputes and human rights issues. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment towards promoting peace efforts globally while also focusing on economic cooperation that benefits both nations.