Xi and Macron commit to deepening China–France cooperation
Chinese President Xi Jinping and French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed their intention to strengthen bilateral cooperation during high-level talks held Thursday in Beijing.
The two leaders met at the Great Hall of the People for a private discussion following an official welcome ceremony, where President Macron inspected a guard of honor. During the talks, Xi emphasized that at a time of “rapid global changes,” China and France must demonstrate leadership, uphold multilateralism, and “stand firmly on the right side of history,” according to Chinese media reports.
Xi described both nations as “independent, visionary, and responsible major powers,” playing an essential role in promoting a more multipolar world. Addressing the war in Ukraine, he reiterated that China “supports all efforts aimed at peace” and will “continue to act constructively to help resolve the crisis.”
Speaking later before the press, Macron said that he had held “extensive discussions” with Xi regarding Ukraine, which he called a “vital threat to European security.” He acknowledged the existence of differences between Paris and Beijing but stressed that the two countries share a “responsibility to overcome them.”
Following their meeting, Xi and Macron attended the signing of several cooperation agreements covering nuclear energy, agriculture, food industries, education, and environmental protection.
Macron arrived in Beijing on Wednesday evening, accompanied by a delegation of 35 corporate leaders, including representatives from Airbus, Danone, and EDF. This marks the French president’s fourth visit to China, taking place amid rising trade tensions between Beijing and the European Union—particularly after Brussels imposed tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles.
In response, China introduced anti-dumping measures on European cognac, before an agreement negotiated by Paris established minimum prices and exempted 90% of French exports by volume.
Macron’s three-day trip will continue with a visit to Chengdu, in southwest China, where a second meeting with Xi is scheduled for Friday.
