Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in France on Sunday for his third state visit, signaling a deepening partnership between China and Europe as they navigate a changing global landscape.
At the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron, Xi’s visit comes at a pivotal time when Europe is seeking strategic autonomy amid shifting geopolitical tensions.
In his arrival statement at Paris Orly Airport, Xi remarked, “In the 60 years since, our bilateral relations have always stayed abreast of China’s relations with Western countries, setting a prime example for countries with different social systems to coexist in peace and pursue win-win cooperation.”
Despite the positive outlook, some Western observers speculate that China’s engagement with Europe aims to loosen the continent’s bonds with the United States and reshape global power dynamics.
However, the increasing eagerness of European nations to strengthen ties with Beijing is driven by their own national interests. As European economies face sluggish growth, leaders are looking towards China for opportunities to revitalize their economies.
French President Macron underscored the urgency of Europe’s situation in a recent speech at the Sorbonne, stating, “Our Europe is mortal… It can die, and it all depends on our choices.”
Faced with the option of aligning exclusively with traditional allies or pursuing a more independent path, Europe is showing a preference for strategic autonomy. Cooperation with China, promoting a multipolar world free of rigid blocs, aligns with this vision.
As Xi noted in his signed article published in Le Figaro, China remains committed to further opening up to the world. “We welcome more quality French farm products and cosmetics, as well as investment from France and other countries, to the Chinese market,” he wrote.
In an era of geopolitical tensions, the strengthening of Sino-French relations offers a pathway for mutual prosperity. Despite different social systems, cooperation between China and Europe has proven effective, suggesting a promising future for both.
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Mortal Europe's survival depends on strategic autonomy, not blocs
cgtn.com
