Xi Jinping and Macron Hold High-Level Talks in Beijing to Boost China–France Strategic Partnership
Chinese President Xi Jinping meets French President Emmanuel Macron in Beijing to strengthen bilateral cooperation, discuss global issues, and witness new agreements.
BEIJING, Dec. 4 — Chinese President Xi Jinping held formal talks with French President Emmanuel Macron on the morning of December 4 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, where Macron is carrying out a state visit to China. Before the discussions, President Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan welcomed President Macron and his wife Brigitte Macron, with the two couples posing for official photographs.
During the talks, Xi Jinping noted that China and France are independent global powers with a long tradition of strategic vision and responsibility. At a time when the international environment is undergoing rapid change, Xi emphasized that both nations should uphold multilateralism, strengthen cooperation, and stand on the “right side of history.”
Xi stated that China is ready to deepen collaboration with France based on the core interests of both peoples and the broader interests of the global community. He expressed confidence that the China–France comprehensive strategic partnership, which has reached a new 60-year milestone, will continue to demonstrate its long-term strategic value and contribute to a more balanced multipolar world and inclusive globalization.
Xi Jinping highlighted that despite external uncertainties, China and France should maintain mutual understanding and support on issues involving core concerns, thereby safeguarding the political foundation of bilateral relations. He said that the recently approved “15th Five-Year Plan” outlines China’s development roadmap for the next five years, creating new opportunities for cooperation.
According to Xi, the two countries should consolidate cooperation in established sectors such as aviation, aerospace, and nuclear energy, while expanding collaboration in emerging fields including the green economy, digital innovation, biomedicine, artificial intelligence, and new energy. China, he added, welcomes greater French investment and is willing to import more high-quality French products, while hoping France will offer Chinese companies a fair and predictable business environment.
Xi stressed that China and France share strong people-to-people ties and should further strengthen cultural, educational, scientific, and local exchanges.
Addressing global challenges, Xi noted that the world is experiencing rising tensions and persistent regional conflicts. As founding members of the United Nations and permanent members of the UN Security Council, China and France should uphold true multilateralism, defend the UN-centered international system, and strengthen coordination on resolving disputes and safeguarding global stability.
He added that global economic governance still suffers from imbalances, particularly between developed and developing countries. China, he said, supports reforming international financial institutions to improve representation and fairness. Xi also warned that “decoupling” and supply-chain fragmentation undermine global economic stability, emphasizing that China–EU relations should remain anchored in cooperation, independence, and mutual benefit.
Macron: France Committed to Deepening Strategic Partnership
President Macron said that France and China enjoy longstanding high-level engagement and maintain a relationship built on trust and mutual respect. France, he reaffirmed, remains committed to the one-China policy and is willing to deepen its comprehensive strategic partnership with China.
Macron welcomed China’s economic growth and openness, noting that it provides significant opportunities for the world. France is prepared to expand cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, renewable energy, and cultural exchanges. He affirmed that France will continue to provide a fair, non-discriminatory environment for Chinese businesses.
Macron also expressed support for stable and constructive EU–China relations, underscoring Europe’s pursuit of strategic autonomy. He stressed that, amid global geopolitical instability and threats to multilateralism, France–China cooperation is critical and irreplaceable. He agreed with Xi on the need to reform global governance and promote a more balanced global economy. Macron added that France is ready to work with China on climate action, biodiversity protection, and the governance of artificial intelligence.
Discussion on the Ukraine Crisis
The two leaders exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis. Xi Jinping reiterated that China supports all efforts conducive to peace and will continue to play a constructive role. China, he added, supports European initiatives aimed at building a balanced, effective, and sustainable security framework in Europe.
Signing of Cooperation Documents
After the talks, Xi and Macron witnessed the signing of several cooperation agreements covering nuclear energy, agriculture and food, education, and environmental protection. They also met jointly with Chinese and foreign reporters.
Welcoming Ceremony and Banquet
Prior to the talks, Xi Jinping and Peng Liyuan hosted a welcoming ceremony for the French President and First Lady in the North Hall of the Great Hall of the People. Honor guards stood in formation as the national anthems of both countries were played, accompanied by a 21-gun salute from Tiananmen Square. Macron reviewed the honor guard of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army alongside Xi Jinping.
At noon, Xi and Peng Liyuan hosted a state banquet in honor of President Macron and his wife in the Golden Hall of the Great Hall of the People.
Senior Chinese official Wang Yi attended the related events.