On Tuesday, French President Emmanuel Macron spoke with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping to review bilateral relations and resolve tensions between China and Europe.
As per an official statement by the office of the French President, Macron congratulated China for hosting the 15th edition of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity in Kunming and committed to promoting ties between China and the European Union (EU). France also hopes to strengthen coordination and communication with China at the upcoming G20 Summit in Rome and the Climate Conference in Glasgow. Additionally, Macron encouraged the Chinese President to address climate change and “give a decisive signal by raising its level of ambition and progressing concretely on the exit of coal.”
Furthermore, Macron expressed France’s willingness to enhance cooperation with China in relevant areas, including the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, and extended support to China in successfully hosting the Winter Olympics. The French President also called on Beijing to adopt a practical approach by revoking sanctions imposed on the EU member states and representatives of European institutions.
Likewise, in a statement released by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, President Jinping attached great importance to relations with France and noted the progress made in bolstering bilateral ties. He also focused on the need to adapt to changing global dynamics through communication and coordination on major issues to maintain global stability.
In addition, Xi urged the European country to expand cooperation in ocean affairs, civil nuclear power, aeronautics, artificial intelligence, and bio pharmacy. He also reiterated China’s commitment to cooperate with France on green technology, biodiversity conservation, the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, in hosting the Olympics, and in volatile and developing regions like Africa.
Next, Xi praised France for advocating for the strategic autonomy of the European Union (EU) and acknowledged the need for high-level communication between China and the EU to clear misunderstandings and misjudgements and establish mutual trust and understanding. He also called for greater coordination in healthcare, technology, connectivity, and environmental protection.
Alongside bilateral issues, the Chinese President also expressed hope that France would leverage its influence to promote steady bilateral ties between the Asian giant and the EU.
China’s relations with the EU have drastically deteriorated since March after Brussels sanctioned Chinese officials linked to human rights abuses in Xinjiang and condemned the introduction of new security law in Hong Kong. In addition, the EU postponed an investment agreement with China. In retaliation, Beijing sanctioned European researchers, parliamentarians, and diplomats.
Macron, Xi Discuss Bilateral Relations, Commit to Reviving Strained Sino-European Ties
French President Emmanuel Macron discussed bilateral ties with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping and committed to improving China’s relations with the European Union.
October 28, 2021
SOURCE: CHINA DAILY