BEIJING/PARIS:
French President Emmanuel Macron’s three-day state visit to China from December 3 to 5 has given new energy to China–France relations, reaffirming both nations’ commitment to multilateralism at a time when global geopolitics is marked by fragmentation, economic uncertainty, and rising great-power competition.
Former French prime minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin called the visit a “significant opportunity for Beijing and Paris to recalibrate their partnership and deepen their joint vision for global governance.”
Diplomacy and Culture Strengthen Ties
Macron wrapped up his visit in Sichuan with a series of cultural activities after a full day of high-level diplomatic engagements in Beijing.
During his meetings with President Xi Jinping, the two leaders held what both sides described as “friendly, candid and fruitful” talks — highlighting the strategic weight both nations place on their long-standing relationship.
The leaders witnessed the signing of several cooperation agreements, addressed the media, and attended the closing ceremony of the 7th China-France Business Council, further underlining their shared interest in deepening economic and political cooperation.
Xi and Macron Highlight Shared Global Vision
Speaking at a joint press conference, President Xi said the two countries agreed to:
- Enhance political mutual trust
- Expand cooperation across key industries
- Deepen cultural and people-to-people exchanges
- Strengthen collaboration on global governance reforms
According to Xinhua, both sides committed to consolidating partnership in traditional sectors such as aviation, aerospace, and nuclear energy, while expanding into emerging fields including:
- Green economy
- Digital economy
- Biopharmaceuticals
- Artificial intelligence
Macron’s visit — his fourth official trip and the first since the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties — reaffirmed the long-term importance of the China-France partnership.
Raffarin noted that both countries, as major global players, stand to benefit from deeper trade, enhanced investment, and richer cultural exchanges. He identified three key areas for “rebalancing” ties:
- Strengthening economic cooperation
- Coordinating global governance ahead of upcoming APEC and G7 leadership roles
- Boosting cultural diplomacy
Civilisational Confidence and Strategic Autonomy
President Xi highlighted the importance of cultural confidence in shaping independent foreign policy. He referenced his 2024 visit to France’s Hautes-Pyrénées, calling China-France relations a “convergence of two splendid civilisations” — a relationship that reaches beyond typical state-to-state dynamics.
Macron echoed these sentiments, characterising the partnership as a “stabilising anchor” amid global uncertainty. He reaffirmed France’s commitment to strategic autonomy, constructive dialogue with China, and a continued adherence to the one-China policy.
Keeping Channels Open Amid Global Instability
As geopolitical tensions rise worldwide, Macron stressed that key actors like Europe and China must remain engaged to promote international stability.
A comprehensive joint statement released by China’s Foreign Ministry highlighted strong alignment on:
- Environmental governance
- Support for developing nations in green transitions
- Climate finance initiatives
France welcomed China’s consideration of joining the Paris Pact for People and the Planet (4P) and its participation in discussions linked to the New Global Financing Pact.
Economic Significance of the Visit
Economically, Macron’s visit underscored China’s central role in France’s international strategy and the wider EU-China relationship.
Key trade insights include:
- China is France’s largest trading partner in Asia
- France is China’s third-largest trading partner in the EU
- Bilateral trade reached nearly $69 billion from January to October 2025
The visit highlighted how economic cooperation continues to serve as a stabilising pillar in China-Europe relations despite broader geopolitical challenges.