French President Emmanuel Macron underscored the critical role of international collaboration during a keynote speech at Sichuan University in Chengdu on December 7, 2025, marking the final day of his three-day state visit to the Chinese mainland. Addressing students and faculty, Macron highlighted humanity's shared responsibility to tackle global challenges such as climate change through mutual understanding and collective action.
"Our capacity to transcend borders and craft a unified agenda for peace, prosperity, and sustainability hinges on respect and responsibility," Macron stated, emphasizing the need for cross-cultural dialogue. His visit coincided with the 2025 ITTF Mixed Team World Cup in Chengdu, where he later engaged in a friendly table tennis match with French and Chinese athletes.
Sichuan University's partnerships with French institutions, including the Paris Institute of Political Studies and the University of Toulouse, exemplify deepening Sino-French educational ties. Chengdu's sister-city relationship with Montpellier, established in 1981, remains a cornerstone of bilateral cultural exchange.
Macron's visit reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen France-China collaboration in education, climate policy, and sports diplomacy, aligning with broader global priorities in 2025.
