French President Emmanuel Macron is adding a personal touch to the formalities of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Paris on Monday. The visit takes place amidst international political tensions in Ukraine and Gaza, as well as economic issues stemming from the trade war between Beijing and Europe. This visit underscores the significance of the 60th anniversary of Franco-Chinese diplomatic relations established by General de Gaulle.
President Xi will be welcomed by Macron at an innkeeper friend’s home in La Mongie ski resort on Tuesday for a lunch. This setting holds special significance as it is located on the Pyrenean lands of Macron’s childhood. The so-called “mirror effect” is a nod to their previous meeting in China, although it remains unclear whether this informal setting will ease ongoing tensions in their dialogue.
The outcome of this high-profile visit could have far-reaching implications for the future of relations between China and France, particularly given the sensitive political and economic climate between the two countries. The trade war has caused tension, leading to economic sanctions imposed by both countries on each other, which have affected many businesses and industries.
