Beijing: Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged French President Emmanuel Macron to collaborate in promoting a more equitable and orderly multipolar world. During a bilateral meeting in Beijing, Xi emphasized the importance of both nations upholding multilateralism.

According to Anadolu Agency, the meeting marked the commencement of Macron's three-day state visit to China, which began with an official welcoming ceremony. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning quoted Xi stating that China and France, as independent and responsible major countries, are key players in fostering global multipolarity and cooperation. Xi expressed China's readiness to engage in equal dialogue and open cooperation with France to enhance their comprehensive strategic partnership.

The leaders attended a signing ceremony for cooperation documents and the closing session of the China-France Business Council's seventh meeting. Xi highlighted the significance of maintaining a steady bilateral relationship, free from interference, amid global changes.

Xi and Macron agreed on four key areas for collaboration: strengthening political trust, expanding practical cooperation, promoting cultural exchanges, and reforming global governance. The two countries aim to support each other's core interests and ensure a fair business environment for bilateral trade and investment.

Addressing the China-France Business Council, Xi emphasized the need to renew diplomatic aspirations and seize opportunities for deeper cooperation. Macron, emphasizing peace and economic rebalancing, expressed his determination to work with China and other partners on global challenges, especially as France prepares to assume the G7 presidency.

Macron's visit, his fourth to China, includes meetings with Chinese Premier Li Qiang and top lawmaker Zhao Leji. The French President and Xi will travel to Chengdu for further discussions on bilateral ties, trade, and international issues, including the wars in Ukraine and Gaza.

As Macron arrived in Beijing, the EU announced a $3.5-billion plan to reduce dependence on China for critical minerals. Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his French counterpart discussed regional and global issues, with Wang cautioning against recent remarks on Taiwan by Japan's leadership.