France’s Efforts to Influence China and Russia Through President Xi Jinping’s Visit

President Xi Jinping’s visit to Paris, France, comes at a crucial time when trade tensions between Europe and China are escalating. Amidst the backdrop of growing trade imbalances, both President Macron and European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen are expected to address the issue during their official meetings with Xi. France’s support for the European Union’s investigation into Chinese electric vehicle exports and Beijing’s retaliatory investigation into brandy imports highlight the complexity of the trade relationship between the two entities.

Despite France’s efforts to press Chinese authorities for trade guarantees, divisions within the European Union cast doubt on their ability to influence China effectively. The absence of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz from the discussions in Paris underscores the challenge of presenting a unified front to Xi. Noah Barkin, a senior adviser at the Rhodium Group, emphasizes the importance of coherence among European leaders to maximize leverage in negotiations with China.

French officials will also seek progress in opening the Chinese market to agricultural exports and addressing concerns within the French cosmetic industry regarding intellectual property rights. In addition to trade issues, France aims to leverage its relationship with China to influence Moscow’s actions in Ukraine. While previous attempts to engage China on the Ukraine conflict have yielded limited results, France remains committed to leveraging Beijing’s diplomatic ties with Russia for a potential resolution.

President Macron’s decision to take Xi to the Pyrenees, a location with personal significance to the Chinese leader, reflects France’s diplomatic strategy of building personal rapport with foreign leaders. However, analysts caution against expecting dramatic concessions from Beijing as a result of symbolic gestures. While Macron’s charm offensive aims to establish a foundation for diplomatic dialogue, the ultimate impact on China’s policies remains uncertain.

Following his visit to France, President Xi will continue his regional tour with stops in Serbia and Hungary, both countries with close ties to Russia. The sequence of Xi’s visits underscores China’s strategic engagement with European partners and its focus on diplomatic outreach in the region. As Xi navigates a complex geopolitical landscape, the outcomes of his discussions in France and beyond will shape the evolving dynamics of China-Europe relations.

Overall, France’s efforts to influence China and Russia through President Xi Jinping’s visit highlight the intricate interplay of trade interests, geopolitical considerations, and personal diplomacy. While the challenges of navigating divergent European positions and aligning priorities with Chinese counterparts are formidable, the enduring commitment to dialogue and engagement underscores the importance of sustained diplomatic efforts in achieving mutual objectives. France’s engagement with China and Russia reflects a broader commitment to shaping global dynamics and fostering cooperation on pressing international issues.