China and France are embarking on a new chapter of strategic cooperation. During talks with French President Emmanuel Macron in Beijing, President Xi Jinping called on both countries to significantly expand cooperation in key areas and to take on greater responsibility for the future direction of the world.

According to Xi Jinping, China and France are independent and responsible powers that can play a crucial role in promoting a multipolar world and genuine multilateralism. At a time when the global situation is changing rapidly and the world is facing fundamental decisions, he believes that both countries should stand „on the right side of history“.

The Chinese president emphasised that the partnership between China and France has a solid foundation and potential for further development for at least the next sixty years. According to him, Beijing is ready to strengthen cooperation in traditional sectors such as aviation, aerospace and nuclear energy, while also developing new areas including the green economy, digital technologies, biotechnology, artificial intelligence and new energy sources.

Xi Jinping also said that China wants to import more high-quality French products and welcomes more French companies to its market. At the same time, he called on France to ensure fair and stable conditions for Chinese companies operating in Europe.

The international agenda also played an important role. Both leaders agreed that, as permanent members of the UN Security Council, China and France must strengthen coordination in addressing global crises, uphold international law and contribute to global governance reform. Xi warned against protectionism and stressed that disconnecting supply chains leads to isolation, not prosperity.

Chinese President Xi Jinping holds a welcome ceremony for French President Emmanuel Macron at the Northern Hall of the Great Hall of the People ahead of their talks in Beijing, the capital of China, December 4, 2025. /Xinhua

President Macron praised the dynamism of the Chinese economy and confirmed that France fully respects the One China policy. He also emphasised that Paris wants to deepen cooperation with Beijing in the areas of trade, investment, renewable energy and cultural exchanges, and supports Europe's strategic autonomy.

The talks also included an exchange of views on the crisis in Ukraine. Xi Jinping said that China supports all steps towards peace and is ready to play a constructive role in the political resolution of the conflict. After the talks, the two presidents jointly oversaw the signing of several cooperation agreements, including in the fields of nuclear energy, agriculture, education and environmental protection.

CMG