- French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stress the need for China to reduce support for Russia amid Ukraine conflict.
- Despite Xi Jinping’s reassurances, Europe expresses concerns over China’s trade practices and aims to balance the trade deficit.
- EU leaders discuss strategic economic defenses against China’s market-distorting practices, launching probes and investigations into subsidies and market access.
- Xi continues his European tour with scheduled visits to Serbia and Hungary, followed by a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Beijing.
Detailed Overview of the Franco-Chinese Diplomatic Engagements
During a significant diplomatic engagement at the Elysee Palace in Paris, French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held extensive talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This meeting, marking Xi’s first state visit to Europe in five years, was primarily focused on pressing China to minimize its support for Russia, particularly concerning the transfer of dual-use materials that could be used in the ongoing Ukraine war.
The European leaders expressed deep concerns about the implications of the conflict on EU-China relations. Von der Leyen stated, “Given the existential nature of the threats stemming from this war for both Ukraine and Europe, this does affect EU-China relations,” emphasizing the urgency for China to exert its influence. “We count on China to use all its influence on Russia to end Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine,” she added, echoing sentiments similar to those expressed by the United States.
Despite these discussions, Xi reiterated China’s stance of non-involvement in the conflict, urging European countries to maintain independence and resist the formation of bloc confrontations. “China did not start the war, nor is it a party to or participant in it,” Xi stated, further criticizing attempts to use the crisis for scapegoating. He advocated for a collaborative approach: “The two sides should take a long view and work together for an equal and orderly multipolar world,” urging France to “oppose decoupling, cutting off supply chains or erecting walls and barriers.”
On the economic front, the talks also broached the subject of the substantial trade deficit Europe has with China, which has grown to over $400 billion. EU officials pointed out the lack of market access for European companies and Beijing’s preferential treatment of domestic firms as primary concerns. “Europe cannot accept market-distorting practices that could lead to deindustrialization here at home,” von der Leyen emphasized. In response, the EU has initiated several measures, including anti-subsidy probes into Chinese electric vehicle imports and public procurement practices in the medical devices sector. These actions reflect Brussels’ intent to “de-risk” economic ties and enhance supply chain resilience amid China’s challenging trade practices and geopolitical maneuvers.
Moreover, the discussions extended to global issues like the conflict in the Gaza Strip, where both leaders agreed on the necessity of an immediate and lasting ceasefire. They also advocated for a global truce during the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, promoting peace and cooperation. “China will work with France to advocate … a cessation of hostilities around the world during the Games,” Xi said.
As Xi continues his diplomatic tour, with subsequent visits to Serbia and Hungary, the European Union remains cautious yet hopeful about strengthening its economic posture against China’s competitive edge. The collective European response to China’s economic strategies will be crucial in shaping future relations and ensuring equitable trade practices.
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