Macron seeks a “greater role” for China in a peace solution in Ukraine

From the point of view of French President Emmanuel Macron, China can play a “greater role” towards a peace solution to the conflict in Ukraine. His talks with the Chinese leadership began on Thursday first a meeting with the new head of government Li Qiang on the agenda. Macron later wanted to hold bilateral talks with head of state and party leader Xi Jinping and a round of three with Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission. The focus is on the conflict in Ukraine and the difficult relations between China and the European Union.

In the discussion about the Ukraine conflict, he wanted to try “Engaging China in a Shared Responsibility for Peace and Stability”, Macron said in a speech at the US embassy the night before. He referred to the close ties between China and Russia. China has reaffirmed its adherence to the UN Charter, which covers the territorial integrity and sovereignty of individual countries.

Macron also referred to China’s position on the conflict in Ukraine presented in February: “Do we totally agree? No, but it’s interesting »said Macron. This shows China’s “willingness to get involved in resolving the conflict.” The 12-point document calls for a ceasefire and the resumption of negotiations. However, it was critically received internationally for showing no initiative to resolve the conflict, not condemning the invasion, and also reflecting Russian arguments with criticism of the West.

China has been providing political support to President Vladimir Putin since invading Ukraine over a year ago. The alliance reflects the geostrategic rivalry with the United States. The US and NATO are portrayed as the main culprits in the conflict. While Xi Jinping met Putin in Moscow two weeks ago, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has not even spoken on the phone since the start of the war.

Relations between Europe and China have also reached an all-time low. In addition, there are disagreements over trade imbalances, human rights violations in China, territorial claims in the East and South China Seas, China’s threats against democratic Taiwan and its more aggressive behavior. Against the background of bad experiences with dependence on Russia concern about the dangers of economic cooperation is growing with the second largest economy.

Macron spoke out against decoupling from China. Of course there is rivalry with the European Union, but both sides need to work together on important international issues. EU Commission President von der Leyen made a similar statement:

Despite all the concerns, the expansion of economic cooperation between France and China is a major topic of Macron’s visit. He is accompanied by a 60-strong French business delegation – including representatives from European aircraft manufacturer Airbus, the world’s second largest electricity producer Électricité de France EDF, train builder Alstom and waste management and water supplier Veolia. (saw/sda/dpa)