Chinese President Xi Jinping has extended an olive branch to France, suggesting a new chapter in China-France relations, shortly after French President Emmanuel Macron's notable visit to India.
Macron's trip, which underscored deepening Indo-French strategic and defense ties, coincided with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France. This juxtaposition has sparked conversations about the evolving dynamics of international alliances, particularly in the context of the Indo-Pacific region.
During a recent interview, Xi expressed a desire to "break new ground" in the bilateral relationship between China and France. He emphasized the importance of peace, security, prosperity, and progress for human development at a time when the world stands at a critical crossroads. Xi's remarks, conveyed through official media, highlight China's readiness to enhance cooperation with France, especially in the realm of high-quality imports and services.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi echoed Xi's sentiments, expressing China's intent to boost French imports and urging France to provide a conducive business environment for Chinese companies. This push for closer ties comes as Macron advocates for Europe to emerge as a third bloc, potentially balancing the influence of the US and China.
Xi's outreach to France follows Macron's significant visit to India, where the two nations unveiled a comprehensive defense roadmap and pledged to deepen cooperation in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific region. These developments have raised eyebrows in Beijing, given the strategic implications for China's interests in the region.
The strengthening of India-France collaboration, particularly in defense and security, is viewed by some as a countermeasure to China's assertive posture in the Indo-Pacific. The joint statement from Macron's India visit highlighted a mutual commitment to the Indo-Pacific region, including plans to intensify cooperation in the Southwest Indian Ocean.
China's overtures to France may be seen as an attempt to recalibrate its diplomatic strategy in light of the growing India-France partnership. As global powers navigate the complexities of the Indo-Pacific, the interplay between China, France, and India will undoubtedly influence the region's geopolitical landscape.
