French President Emmanuel Macron and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Paris to discuss trade disputes and diplomatic efforts during Xi’s two-day state visit to France. Macron focused on addressing trade issues, fair competition, and utilizing Chinese influence to resolve conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.
Xi’s European tour, which also includes stops in Serbia and Hungary, aims to rebuild relations amid global tensions. Concerns have been raised about a Chinese anti-dumping investigation into European cognac, tensions in the French cosmetics sector, and EU investigations into Chinese subsidies.
The EU has called for reciprocal access to markets and urged China to uphold its commitment not to provide lethal equipment to Russia in the Ukraine war. Macron also sought Xi’s influence to turn the upcoming Summer Olympics into a diplomatic moment of peace.
Human rights groups urged Macron to address human rights concerns with Xi during their talks. Reporters Without Borders staged a protest denouncing Xi’s visit as a threat to press freedom.
During Xi’s visit, Macron and Xi attended a ceremony, economic forum, and state dinner. In a reciprocal gesture, Macron invited Xi to visit the Tourmalet Pass in the Pyrenees mountains, following Xi’s previous invitation to his residence in Guangdong province.
The meeting between Macron and Xi highlighted the complexities of the relationship between China and Europe, with trade and human rights issues at the forefront of discussions. As tensions continue to simmer, both leaders are looking for ways to navigate the challenges and find common ground for cooperation.
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