Xi Jinping visits Paris for talks with Emmanuel Macron, focusing on trade and Ukraine

Photo : Reuters

Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Paris on Monday for his first visit to the region in five years, with trade and discussions on Russia's conflict with Ukraine topping the agenda in talks with French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen.

Upon his arrival, Xi Jinping lauded the strong ties between China and France, despite recent trade tensions. These tensions have arisen from issues such as the European Union's investigation into Chinese electric vehicle exports and China's own probe into mostly French-made brandy imports.

In a statement, Xi emphasized the relationship between the two nations as "a model for the international community of peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation between countries with different social systems."

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Chinese state media also adopted a conciliatory stance ahead of Xi's visit, acknowledging the inevitable challenges in China-EU economic and trade cooperation but expressing China's willingness to strengthen communication and cooperation with the EU.

Despite this, there are differences within the EU regarding its approach to China, with France advocating for a tougher stance while Germany urges caution. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, however, will not be present in Paris due to prior commitments.

Macron highlighted the importance of unity within Europe regarding China, acknowledging differing views among member states. France aims to leverage Xi's visit to urge China to influence Russia to cease its operations in Ukraine, building on Macron's previous discussions with Xi on the matter.

France also seeks to address trade issues, particularly opening the Chinese market for its agricultural exports and resolving concerns of the French cosmetic industry regarding intellectual property rights.

In return, China may announce an order for approximately 50 Airbus aircraft during Xi's visit, further enhancing bilateral trade relations.

Following his visit to Paris, Macron plans to take Xi to the Pyrenees, a region with personal significance to the French president. Xi will then continue his tour with visits to Serbia and Hungary, countries known for their friendly relations with Russia.