French President Emmanuel Macron has arrived in China for a three-day state visit, receiving a grand welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. During his visit, Macron met with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who emphasized the importance of promoting multilateralism, global solidarity, and cooperation between the two nations. Xi stated that China is ready to work with France to overcome various global challenges, prioritizing the fundamental interests of their peoples and the international community.

The two leaders engaged in wide-ranging talks, discussing pressing issues such as ending the war in Ukraine and addressing global economic imbalances. Macron has been seeking China’s assistance in bringing an end to the conflict in Ukraine, where China has maintained a neutral stance despite being a major trading partner with Russia. China has consistently called for peace talks and respect for territorial integrity, but has not condemned Russia’s 2022 invasion.

Macron’s visit is his fourth to China, the world’s second-largest economy, and is accompanied by a large business delegation. Following their talks, the two leaders signed 12 cooperation agreements covering areas such as population aging, bilateral investment, nuclear energy, and panda conservation. The agreements highlight the strengthening of ties between the two nations, with a focus on mutual benefit and cooperation.

The visit also includes a trip to Chengdu in China’s southwestern Sichuan province, where Macron and Xi will hold further talks in Dujiangyan, home to one of the world’s oldest irrigation systems. The province is also notable for being the residence of two giant pandas loaned to France by China. The visit underscores the growing diplomatic and economic relationship between France and China, with both nations seeking to promote cooperation and understanding on the global stage.

As the visit progresses, attention will be focused on the potential outcomes of the talks, particularly regarding the situation in Ukraine and the future of China-France relations. With the signing of the cooperation agreements, it is clear that both nations are committed to deepening their partnership, with a focus on mutual benefit and cooperation. The visit serves as a significant step in strengthening ties between France and China, with implications for global diplomacy and economic cooperation.