On October 21, 2024, Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, met in Beijing with Laurent Fabius, the President of the French Constitutional Council and former Prime Minister.
During the meeting, Wang emphasized that the China-France relationship has consistently maintained a high level of development. He noted Xi Jinping’s historic visit to France this year, where he and President Macron celebrated the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations, a moment that provided strategic guidance for the development of China-France and China-Europe relations in this new context. He highlighted that both countries are committed to independence and self-reliance, aligning with the broader trend toward a multipolar world, which is conducive to global peace and stability.
Wang also reaffirmed China’s strong support for free trade and its ongoing commitment to upholding the global trading system. He pointed out that the recent challenges in China-Europe economic and trade relations do not serve the interests of either side and expressed hope that the European Union would consider overall and long-term interests, working with China through negotiations to address mutual concerns.
Fabius remarked on the importance of maintaining Franco-Chinese friendship in the face of a tumultuous and complex global landscape. He contrasted the stability of the China-France relationship with the uncertainties present in the world today. He reiterated France’s diplomatic tradition of independence and friendship with China, emphasizing France’s long-standing opposition to imposition and its advocacy for dialogue and cooperation to resolve issues.
The two leaders also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis and strategies for addressing climate change.
