French President Emmanuel Macron is set to engage in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping during a two-day state visit to France. Macron aims to urge Xi to leverage his influence to encourage Russia to end the war in Ukraine. The agenda also includes addressing trade disputes related to electric cars, cognac, and cosmetics.
Macron's office highlighted that diplomatic efforts to support Ukraine and exert pressure on Russia are of utmost importance for France. The talks will encompass various topics such as the Middle East, trade issues, and global challenges like climate change. The European Commission president will participate in some meetings to address broader EU concerns.
France is the initial stop on Xi's European tour, focusing on rebuilding relations amid global tensions. Following France, Xi will visit Serbia and Hungary. France hopes that the discussions will persuade China to utilize its influence with Moscow to aid in resolving the conflict in Ukraine.
Macron intends to raise concerns about Chinese companies supplying the Russian war effort despite EU sanctions. France also seeks China's commitment to maintaining a dialogue with Kyiv. Last year, Macron appealed to Xi to influence Russia positively, but no apparent change in Beijing's stance was observed.
Aside from geopolitical matters, Macron plans to address trade issues during the visit. He will express French apprehensions regarding a Chinese antidumping investigation into cognac and other European brandy, as well as tensions in sectors like cosmetics. Macron, emphasizing Europe's economic sovereignty, has collaborated with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on trade matters.
The visit will be closely monitored by the U.S., with President Joe Biden scheduled to visit France in the near future. Xi's visit commemorates the 60th anniversary of France-China diplomatic relations and follows Macron's trip to China in April 2023.
Human rights organizations have urged Macron to prioritize human rights concerns in his discussions with Xi. Amnesty International specifically called for the release of Uyghur economics professor Ilham Tohti and other imprisoned activists. Macron has affirmed his intention to address human rights issues during the talks.
The visit's itinerary includes formal meetings, a state dinner, and a personal excursion to the Pyrenees mountains. Macron has invited Xi to visit the Tourmalet Pass, symbolizing a reciprocal gesture following Macron's visit to Guangdong province with Xi.
