Macron tells Xi that China, France must overcome ‘differences’

A Call for Unity

French President Emmanuel Macron spoke clearly to China’s leader, Xi Jinping. The leaders met in Beijing on Thursday, December 4, 2025. This was a very important meeting. It was part of Macron’s three-day state visit to China. The French President had a strong message. He said France and China must overcome their “differences.”

These differences cover many important global issues. They include the ongoing war in Ukraine. They also cover the huge economic imbalance in trade. Both leaders agreed to talk openly. Macron said, “Sometimes there are differences, but it is our responsibility to overcome them for the greater good.” This statement sets the serious tone for their talks.

The Weight of the Visit Macron tells

Macron’s visit comes at a crucial time. The world is facing many challenges. These challenges include war and economic uncertainty. France and China are both powerful nations. They are permanent members of the United Nations Security Council. This means they have a special duty to keep the world safe.

The French President emphasized the need for joint action. He spoke of the risk of the international order falling apart. Macron believes that dialogue between China and France is more important than ever. He said that working together is “decisive” for global peace and stability. The whole world is watching to see if these two major powers can find common ground.

The Central Issue: Peace in Ukraine

The war in Ukraine was the top item on Macron’s agenda. France and the European Union strongly support Ukraine. They want the fighting to stop immediately. Macron specifically asked Xi Jinping for help. He believes China has a “decisive capacity” to influence Russia. This is because China is a close partner of Russia.

Macron urged the Chinese leader to push Russia toward a ceasefire. He asked for “at least a ceasefire in the form of a moratorium on strikes” against Ukraine’s critical infrastructure. This would mean stopping attacks on things like power plants and water systems. China has not condemned Russia’s invasion. However, Xi Jinping said China supports all efforts that work toward peace. He also called for a “fair, lasting and binding peace agreement.”

China’s Role in Global Peace Macron tells

China’s stance on the Ukraine conflict is complex. China says it is neutral and calls for peace talks. Yet, it has deepened its economic ties with Russia since the 2022 invasion. This has provided a vital lifeline for Russia. Macron hopes to use China’s friendship with Russia to bring about a change. He is trying to convince Xi that peace in Europe is good for global stability.

Macron’s message to Xi was clear. He stressed that China must “refrain from providing any means, by any means, to Russia to continue the war.” This means no economic or military support for the fighting. The French President hopes China will use its influence to create a stable environment for a lasting peace. This geopolitical stability is a major part of Macron’s plan for better relations.

Economic Imbalance: A Huge Trade Deficit

The second main topic of the talks was trade. The economic relationship between Europe and China is massive. But it is also very lopsided. The European Union has a huge trade deficit with China. This means Europe buys much more from China than it sells to China. Last year, this deficit was over €300 billion. Macron tells

For France, the problem is even bigger. China accounts for nearly half of France’s total trade deficit. Macron wants to achieve “economic rebalancing.” He argues that trade must be fairer. It must be a two-way street. France is demanding greater and easier access to the Chinese market for its own companies. This would help close the massive trade gap.

Fair and Reciprocal Market Access Macron tells

Macron is committed to defending the idea of “fair and reciprocal market access.” This means if Chinese companies can freely do business in France, then French companies should have the same freedom in China. France is worried about China’s economic policies. They are concerned about state subsidies and forced technology transfers. Macron tells

Macron has asked the EU to reduce its dependence on China. He has also called for a “European preference” in certain industries, like technology. This would favor European companies. Xi Jinping acknowledged the issue. He said both sides agreed to work for more “balanced” economic ties. China also promised to open its door wider and expand market access. But the French want to see real, concrete action.

Cooperation in New Technologies

Beyond the disputes, the two leaders identified areas for future cooperation. They agreed to work together on many new and important sectors. These are areas where both countries can benefit greatly. Key areas include the green economy and new energy. They also include the digital economy, biomedicine, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Macron tells

These new fields are vital for the future of the world economy. By working together, France and China can share knowledge and create new products. They signed 12 new agreements during the visit. These deals covered things like nuclear energy, agriculture, and education. A charming agreement was also signed for a new round of cooperation on the protection of giant pandas. Macron tells

Upholding Global Governance Macron tells

Macron’s final major theme was global governance. This means the set of rules and systems that manage the world. He told Xi that both countries must work with others to make these rules fairer and stronger. This means moving away from a system based on “survival of the fittest.”

The French President believes that China and France should use their power to uphold multilateralism. Multilateralism is the idea of many countries working together. He wants both nations to defend the international system centered on the United Nations. They agreed to step up coordination on global issues. These issues include climate change, protecting biodiversity, and AI governance. Macron tells

Addressing Human Rights Concerns

While not the public focus, human rights concerns were also part of the high-level discussions. Human rights organizations urged Macron to speak out clearly. They asked him to address labor rights abuses and repression in China. Issues like forced labor in Chinese supply chains remain a serious concern for the EU. Macron tells

France has been under pressure to link human rights more directly to trade. The EU has rules against products made with forced labor. Macron’s government is trying to find a balance. They want to maintain a strong trade relationship while still upholding European values. This tension between business and values is a key difference that needs careful handling.

A Strategic Partnership for the Future

Despite the differences, China and France value their relationship. They see each other as “comprehensive strategic partners.” Xi Jinping stressed that no matter how the world changes, they must keep showing a strategic vision. He said they should support each other on issues concerning their core interests. Macron tells

The two countries have a long history of cooperation. France was the first major Western nation to establish diplomatic ties with the People’s Republic of China in 1964. Both leaders agreed that they must now ensure the partnership advances steadily over the next 60 years. This requires both trust and constant, open dialogue about their disagreements.

The Path of Independence and Stability Macron tells

Both leaders emphasized the importance of independence. Xi encouraged France to maintain its “strategic autonomy.” This means making its own decisions, not simply following the lead of other countries. France also welcomes more Chinese investment, but it demands a “fair and non-discriminatory business environment.” Macron tells

Macron’s visit confirmed that the relationship is complex. It involves being partners, competitors, and rivals all at the same time. The goal is to manage this mix to ensure global stability. The success of their partnership depends on their ability to work through the big issues: peace in Ukraine, a fair trade balance, and global governance reform. Macron tells

Dialogue is Essential

President Macron’s meeting with Xi Jinping was a vital step. His message was bold and direct. He told the Chinese leader that France and China must face and overcome their differences. This is not just for their own good. It is for the greater benefit of the entire world. Macron tells

The discussion covered the critical need for China’s help in bringing about a Ukraine ceasefire. It also pushed for a significant rebalancing of trade to make it fairer for Europe. By agreeing to expand cooperation in new, important areas, the leaders showed a path forward. The talks highlight that open dialogue is the essential tool for major world powers to solve complex problems and work toward a more stable and prosperous future. Macron tells

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