The French president hopes that Beijing will help achieve at least a suspension of strikes on Ukraine's critical infrastructure. Xi Jinping assured that China will continue to play a constructive role, DW reports.
French President Emmanuel Macron urged China to assist in finding a peaceful way to end the war in Ukraine. During a press meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Thursday, December 4, Macron expressed hope that Beijing would join France's efforts to achieve at least a suspension of Russian strikes on Ukraine's critical infrastructure as soon as possible. He also noted that France and China, as permanent members of the UN Security Council, bear a special responsibility.
Xi Jinping reiterated Beijing's commitment to seeking peace in Ukraine and assured that China would continue to play a constructive role. At the same time, the Chinese leader rejected attempts to place the blame for the war on one side.
China's Role in the War of the Russian Federation Against Ukraine
China is considered a key supporter of Russia in the war it has unleashed against Ukraine. Active contacts and trade continue between Beijing and Moscow. China has not condemned the armed invasion and effectively supports the Russian Federation with its position. Furthermore, Beijing is accused of supplying dual-use goods that could be utilized by the Russian military-industrial complex.
Before his trip to China, Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed the state of negotiations to end the war with allies in Paris.
Emmanuel Macron is in China for his fourth state visit. Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan welcomed Macron and his wife Brigitte at the Great Hall of the People. The French president is accompanied by a delegation of about 80 people, including representatives of major businesses.
"Resolve Differences"
During the meeting with Xi Jinping, Emmanuel Macron called for resolving differences between France and China. "There are sometimes 'differences in views' between Paris and Beijing, but 'our responsibility is to overcome them for the good of all,'" Macron stated. "We must continue to work for peace and stability in the world, in Ukraine and other regions affected by the war," he emphasized. The French president also urged China to cooperate with the G7 countries to uphold the rules-based global economic order.
Xi Jinping, for his part, stated that China is ready to cooperate with France "to exclude any interference" and make the "comprehensive strategic partnership" between the countries more sustainable.
