Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, engaged in discussions with Chinese leader Xi Jinping on Monday, primarily focusing on trade disputes, particularly concerning the potential removal of immediate tariff threats on Cognac exports, and diplomatic efforts related to Ukraine. Xi’s visit to France was part of his two-day state visit, marking the beginning of his European tour.
Following their meeting at the Elysee presidential palace, Macron expressed France’s hope that China’s influence on Russia could assist in bringing an end to the conflict in Ukraine. Macron acknowledged China’s commitments to refrain from selling weapons or providing aid that could fuel the conflict and to strictly control the sale of dual-use products and technologies.
While China maintains neutrality in the Ukraine conflict, Xi emphasized the importance of negotiation in resolving conflicts and called for all parties to restart contact and dialogue. Macron had previously urged Xi to influence Russia’s actions regarding Ukraine, but there was no apparent follow-up from Beijing.
Both leaders also addressed concerns regarding the situation in the Middle East, particularly the Israel-Hamas conflict. They emphasized the need for an immediate cease-fire, humanitarian aid delivery, and regional de-escalation.
Xi expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with France to promote a global cease-fire and cessation of war during the Paris Olympics, which Macron supports as a diplomatic moment of peace in line with the Olympic Truce.
Trade issues were also prominent in their discussions, with Macron criticizing China’s trade practices for favoring protectionism and subsidies. Macron appreciated Xi’s openness regarding provisional measures on French Cognac, following China’s anti-dumping investigation earlier this year.
Gift exchanges between the two leaders included luxury Cognac bottles from France and Chinese-language editions of classic French novels from Xi.
France aims to maintain its exports, including brandy and cosmetics, to the Chinese market. The meeting also included European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, addressing broader concerns of the European Union regarding fair trade practices and security.
Xi’s visit to Europe, his first in five years, is part of efforts to strengthen relations amidst global tensions. Following France, he will visit Serbia and Hungary, marking the 60th anniversary of France-China diplomatic relations.
This visit follows Macron’s trip to China in April 2023, during which he sparked controversy by asserting France’s independent stance in international crises, potentially alluding to China’s aspirations regarding Taiwan.
