Beijing: French President Emmanuel Macron has called on Chinese President Xi Jinping to join the ongoing efforts for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. Macron made this appeal during a bilateral meeting with Xi in Beijing, emphasizing the urgent need for a moratorium on strikes targeting critical infrastructure in Ukraine.
According to Anadolu Agency, Macron highlighted the shared responsibility of France and China as permanent members of the UN Security Council to find compromises while upholding international law and ensuring long-term stability. He expressed hope that the two nations could strengthen their cooperation to achieve lasting peace.
Xi responded by stating China's support for efforts conducive to peace and its commitment to playing a constructive role in the political settlement of the Ukraine crisis. He also reiterated China's support for European countries in establishing a balanced and sustainable European security architecture.
Macron further emphasized the importance of cooperation for a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, advocating for a two-state solution in Gaza. He praised the dialogue between Europe and China, built on trust and mutual understanding, in addressing global economic governance challenges.
During his visit, Macron welcomed China's renewed commitment to facilitating access to the Chinese market for French products, noting progress in overcoming past misunderstandings. Accompanied by business leaders and government officials, this marks Macron's fourth state visit to China.
Macron also engaged in discussions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and top lawmaker Zhao Leji, focusing on development-strategy alignment, two-way openness, free trade, and economic globalization. The visit includes a trip to Chengdu, where Xi will host Macron for further talks on bilateral ties, trade, US tariffs, and the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
The leaders are also expected to discuss China's relationship with the European Union, which saw a trade volume increase to approximately $785.8 billion last year.