Xi and Macron Seek Common Ground on Trade, Ukraine and Market Access in Beijing Meeting

China said it is open to importing more French goods if Chinese companies receive a fair and supportive environment in France. Macron, beginning his three-day visit, stressed the need for a balanced relationship and urged Beijing to help advance efforts toward ending the Russia-Ukraine war.

Macron welcomed China’s willingness to expand access for French agricultural products, including wine, pork, poultry and beef. He said both countries will work toward a framework for increased Chinese investment in Europe, particularly investments that can create jobs in France.

The two leaders witnessed the signing of agreements across energy, agriculture, education and environmental cooperation. Xi also highlighted deeper collaboration in aerospace, nuclear energy, the digital economy, biopharma and artificial intelligence.

Analysts say the meeting reflects France’s ambition to play a stabilizing role in EU-China ties. Maintaining strong relations with Paris also helps Beijing secure allies within the European Union as Brussels debates economic and political decisions affecting China.

Trade frictions have intensified over the past year. Macron supported the EU’s move to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, prompting Chinese countermeasures targeting French cognac. He is expected to urge Xi not to expand retaliatory measures to French pork or dairy products as Beijing weighs further trade responses.

Macron also pressed China on issues related to rare earth exports, which Beijing restricted earlier, triggering concerns among European automakers. His visit comes as China confronts a diplomatic dispute with Japan over comments suggesting a potential military response to any Chinese move on Taiwan. While China said Macron affirmed the “one China policy,” the French readout did not mention Taiwan.

The leaders also exchanged views on the war in Ukraine. Xi reiterated that China would continue playing what it calls a constructive role, while Macron pushed for Beijing to use its influence on Russia to support at least a cease-fire that halts strikes on critical infrastructure.

Macron’s trip offers a rare opportunity for China to hear a European perspective directly at the top level, particularly given Beijing’s close partnership with Moscow since 2022.

After formal talks, Xi and Macron will travel to Chengdu, home to China’s giant panda breeding center. France recently returned two loaned pandas after 13 years, and China has promised to send a new pair. Xi said both countries have agreed to a new panda protection deal, underscoring soft-power diplomacy amid strategic disagreements.