During his state visit to France, Chinese leader Xi Jinping and European leaders discussed a range of issues including the conflict in Ukraine and trade tensions between China and the European Union. Hosted by Emmanuel Macron, the visit aimed to convince Xi to use his influence in Moscow to help resolve the conflict in Ukraine.
Europeans also urged China to play fair in trade and prevent the deindustrialization of Europe, which could be accelerated by massive exports of products like electric vehicles. The European Commission’s President, Ursula von der Leyen, emphasized the importance of a fair playing field in trade between China and the EU. Macron and Von der Leyen met with Xi to discuss strategic autonomy and the need for balanced relationships between countries.
The visit will include a state dinner at the Elysée, as well as a trip to the Pyrenees and the port of Tourmalet for a more intimate setting for discussions. Xi hopes to persuade the EU, with France’s support, to reverse its risk reduction policy that could limit Chinese exports, particularly in green sectors. He has proposed deepening cooperation in innovation and promoting ecological development.
Discussions between Macron and Xi will also address the situation in Ukraine, with China being urged to use its influence over Russia to end the conflict. The visit is part of the 60th-anniversary celebrations of diplomatic relations between France and China. Macron has always aimed to give a European dimension to France’s relationship with Beijing, with this visit being a continuation of their efforts to strengthen ties.
