China’s President Xi Jinping was scheduled to land in Paris for a rare visit. Macron aims to press him on reducing trade imbalances and influencing Russia.
Achieving these goals may prove challenging during Xi’s brief visit to France. His arrival coincides with escalating trade tensions between Europe and China.
France supports a European Union investigation into Chinese electric vehicle exports. Beijing retaliated by initiating a probe into brandy imports.
“We must continue to push Chinese authorities to give us more guarantees on trade issues,” an Elysee adviser said ahead of Mr Xi’s visit, his first trip to Europe in five years.
His official meetings will include joint talks with Mr. Macron and European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen.
“Leverage flies out the window if European leaders are sending different messages to Xi,” said Noah Barkin, a senior adviser at the Rhodium Group and close follower of EU-China relations.
France has urged China to pressure Moscow to cease operations in Ukraine, with limited success. Xi contacted Zelensky after Macron’s visit.
”China being one of Russia’s main partners; our objective is to use the leverages it has on Moscow to change Russia’s calculations and help contribute to solving the conflict,” the Elysee adviser said.
Additionally, the meeting underscores France’s role as a key player in European and international affairs. Consequently, Macron Presses Xi, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between France and China.
As the discussions unfold, Macron’s diplomatic efforts are poised to shape the trajectory of Franco-Chinese relations.
Moreover, Macron’s engagement with Xi reflects France’s proactive approach to addressing regional and global challenges. Consequently, Macron Presses Xi, signaling France’s resolve to advance dialogue and cooperation in pursuit of shared objectives and mutual benefits.
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