As China’s President Xi Jinping embarks on a rare visit to Paris, the French President Emmanuel Macron is faced with the daunting task of addressing trade imbalances between the two nations. The recent tensions in the European Union regarding Chinese exports of electric vehicles and the retaliatory investigation into French brandy imports have added to the complexity of the situation. It is evident that France is determined to negotiate with Chinese authorities and seek reassurances on trade issues during Xi’s visit.
The divisions within the European Union, particularly between France and Germany, highlight the challenges in presenting a unified front in dealing with China. The absence of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz from the discussions between Macron and Xi further weakens the EU’s leverage. As Noah Barkin rightly points out, sending mixed messages to Xi undermines the ability of European leaders to influence China effectively.
France’s efforts to persuade China to exert pressure on Russia regarding the conflict in Ukraine have yielded limited results so far. Despite Xi’s call to Ukrainian President Zelenskiy following Macron’s visit to Beijing, the need for China to actively engage in resolving the conflict remains paramount. It is crucial for China to consider the perspectives of its European partners and take substantial steps towards mediating in the Ukraine crisis.
Macron’s decision to take Xi to the Pyrenees as a gesture of goodwill reflects his strategy of establishing personal rapport with foreign leaders. However, it is essential to recognize that personal gestures alone may not lead to significant compromises from Beijing. While Macron’s charm offensive is commendable, the intricacies of international relations require a more comprehensive approach to addressing bilateral issues.
President Xi’s visit to Paris presents a multitude of challenges for France in terms of trade negotiations, diplomatic efforts, and personal diplomacy. As Macron navigates through the complexities of the discussions with Xi, it is imperative for France to prioritize its national interests while also fostering constructive dialogue with China. The outcome of Xi’s visit will not only shape the future of Sino-French relations but also have broader implications for the EU’s approach towards China.