Xi Jinping aims to strengthen China-France relations through upcoming visit.

The Illuminating State Visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping to France

Chinese President Xi Jinping, on a state visit to France at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, expressed his hope for China and France to illuminate a brighter future together, marking a significant moment in diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Xi Jinping’s agenda for the visit includes discussions on enhancing China-France and China-Europe relations in light of new global circumstances. He plans to engage in talks covering major international and regional issues, aiming to align strategies and further diplomatic and economic cooperation.

France was the first major Western nation to establish formal diplomatic relations in 1964, create a comprehensive strategic partnership, and engage in air transportation and civil nuclear energy projects with China.

An article by Chinese President Xi Jinping titled “Carrying Forward the Spirit that Guided the Establishment of China-France Diplomatic Relations, Working Together for Global Peace and Development” was published Sunday in French media Le Figaro.

In this article, Xi Jinping emphasized his intention to strengthen the long-standing friendship and deepen exchanges in various fields including politics and culture.

Chinese President Xi Jinping shakes hands with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen as they leave after holding a trilateral meeting, which included the French President, as part of the Chinese president’s two-day state visit, at the Elysee Palace in Paris, on May 6, 2024. LEHTIKUVA / AFP

During his two-day state visit to France, Xi Jinping was met with pressing appeals from Emmanuel Macron and EU Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen to address trade tensions and the war in Ukraine.

Xi Jinping dismissed concerns about “China’s overcapacity problem,” asserting that from perspectives of comparative advantage or global market demand, “there is no such thing as ‘China’s overcapacity problem’.”

Xi highlighted the mutual benefits derived from the growing relationship, citing advancements in cooperation on aviation, aerospace, nuclear energy, agrifood, and green development.

During his speech at the Sixth Meeting of the China-France Business Council, Xi outlined the economic interdependence of the two nations and proposed future collaborations, particularly in green and digital transitions.

In his speech at the closing ceremony of the Sixth Meeting of the China-France Business Council, Xi Jinping articulated a vision for a deeper, multifaceted partnership.

This state visit not only commemorates a historic milestone in China-France relations but also occurs at a time of significant global change and uncertainty.

Stay tuned for more updates on Xi Jinping’s impactful state visit to France!

HT