French Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna urged France and China to collaborate in reducing global tensions and addressing critical issues such as climate change and biodiversity during her official visit to Beijing. The discussions took place ahead of a significant U.N. climate conference in Dubai next week and an upcoming EU-China leaders meeting.
Colonna’s visit coincided with a temporary truce in the Israel-Hamas conflict, and she emphasized the shared responsibility of major powers in addressing global challenges. Premier Li Qiang, China’s No. 2 leader, joined Colonna in acknowledging the potential for concerted efforts to alleviate tensions worldwide.
Current global tensions encompass conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, as well as the competition between China and the U.S. regarding trade, technology, and security. A delegation of Arab foreign ministers also engaged in talks in China and France to advocate for a cease-fire in Gaza.
While the European Union has adopted a more stringent stance on China, launching a trade investigation into subsidies for Chinese electric vehicle makers, there are ongoing efforts to repair relations between China and major trading partners, including Europe, the U.S., and Australia. The easing of China’s pandemic restrictions in December has facilitated in-person meetings and contributed to improving diplomatic ties.
French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to China in April and Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire’s visit in July have played a role in enhancing relations. Premier Li highlighted the positive trajectory of China-France relations, noting increased frequency in exchanges at all levels as various mechanisms have been restored.
