Macron Urges China to Play Important Role in Resolving Ukraine Conflict

Addressing French citizens in Beijing on a range of issues, including Russia’s war on Ukraine, Macron said: “China, with its close ties with Russia, reaffirmed in recent days, can play an important role.”

France will engage “in this shared responsibility for peace and stability.”

During his visit to China, Macron hopes to dissuade Beijing from supporting Russia’s attack on Ukraine, as well as strengthen ties with France’s important trade partner.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who met with Macron in Paris on Monday to coordinate preparations, will also pay a visit to Beijing this week.

In a speech at the French embassy in Beijing, Macron also said that Europe should not separate itself economically from China.

“We should not separate ourselves, separate ourselves from China,” Macron told a meeting of the French community in Beijing, adding that France would “proactively move to continue trade relations with China.”