Macron to press China on Ukraine
FRENCH president Emmanuel Macron will press China’s Xi Jinping to use his influence to move Russia toward ending the war in Ukraine during a two-day state visit to France.
Macron’s office said talks about diplomatic efforts to support Ukraine and put pressure on Russia are a top priority for France.
Discussions will also include the Middle East, trade – including disputes over electric cars and cognac – and global challenges including climate change.
European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen will join part of the meetings to raise broader European Union concerns. The EU launched an investigation last autumn into Chinese subsidies and could impose tariffs on electric vehicles exported from China.
France is the first stop on a European trip by Xi aimed at rebuilding relations at a time of global tensions. Afterwards he will head to Serbia and Hungary.
It is hoped that the discussions will help convince China to use its leverage with Moscow to “contribute to a resolution of the conflict” in Ukraine, according to the French presidential office.
Russian president Vladimir Putin recently announced plans to visit China this month.
Macron will press Xi over supplies from Chinese companies supporting the Russian war effort despite EU sanctions, he said.
China claims neutrality in the Ukraine conflict. France also wants China to maintain a dialogue with Kyiv, added the official.
As France prepares to host the Olympic Games, Macron said he would ask Xi to use his influence to make the event “a diplomatic moment of peace” and respect the Olympic Truce.