Beijing is turning to France as a key ally on Xi Jinping’s European tour to advocate for a more positive and practical approach to China policy within the EU. Amid increasing scrutiny of Chinese products and market access, Beijing is emphasizing the need for the EU to uphold its “strategic autonomy” in alignment with French President Emmanuel Macron’s vision of positioning the bloc as the “third pole” in a world dominated by US-China rivalry.
Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Lin Jian expressed optimism about enhancing political trust and cooperation during Xi’s visit to France, aiming to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the EU.
French President Macron’s nuanced approach to China has positioned him as a skilled diplomat balancing between interests, particularly navigating the complexities of China-US relations. With a focus on deepening European interests and promoting European strategic autonomy, Macron aims to foster a constructive dialogue with China while also championing EU trade and competition policies.
During Xi’s visit, discussions are expected to cover various issues, from trade and overcapacity to cultural exchanges and climate cooperation. Macron’s engagement with Xi reflects his commitment to promoting European interests while maintaining constructive relations with China.
As Macron continues to navigate the complex dynamics between China and the EU, his diplomatic finesse and strategic vision serve as a crucial element in shaping the future of EU-China relations.
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As Macron aims to strike a delicate balance between promoting French interests and navigating EU-China relations, his interactions with Xi during the visit will be closely watched for their impact on the future trajectory of EU-China cooperation.