French President Emmanuel Macron said in Beijing on Thursday that he wants to chart a “common path” with China to achieve peace in Ukraine when he meets his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping.
French officials previously said Macron will urge Xi to use his influence with Russian President Vladimir Putin to promote peace in Ukraine, but they do not expect major changes in China’s position.
Xi and Putin previously declared “unlimited friendship” between their countries on the eve of the February 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Beijing refused to criticize Moscow, but tried to maintain an image of neutrality, calling for a ceasefire and talks. peace.
Macron said during a meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang that he wanted to talk about “Ukraine, but also about all the major conflicts and difficult situations around the world.”
“The ability to share a common analysis and build a common path is essential,” he said.
Li said there was likely to be a “broad consensus” between Macron and Xi, but gave no indication whether Beijing would be willing to put pressure on Moscow to end the war. The meeting will “send positive signals about the concerted efforts of China, France and Europe to maintain world peace and stability,” he said.
Macron joined European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in a show of European unity in relations with Beijing.
On Wednesday, he stressed that he wants to “engage China in a shared responsibility for peace” in Ukraine.
The French head of state said he hoped that China would “participate in useful initiatives for the Ukrainian people.”
Beijing wants to retain Putin’s government as a viable diplomatic partner to counter the US-led liberal democratic order and a reliable energy provider.
China’s purchases of Russian oil rose 24% year-on-year in January and February, allowing Russia to overtake Saudi Arabia as the neighboring country’s biggest crude supplier, according to official data released last month.
This has led to a relationship that analysts see as asymmetrical, in favor of China, but Xi seems reluctant to push Putin.
NATO’s 31 member states warned Wednesday of “serious consequences” if China starts sending weapons and ammunition to Russia.
Alliance Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said providing “lethal aid” would be a “historic mistake”. He warned there would be “serious consequences” but declined to give details.
Last week von der Leyen warned that the European Union must be prepared to develop measures to protect trade and investment that China could exploit for its own military and security purposes.
Source: TSF
