PARIS: French President Emmanuel Macron will make a fresh attempt to dissuade China’s Xi Jinping from backing Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war against Ukraine. However, observers suggest that a breakthrough in ending the conflict is unlikely to be achieved during the XI’s state visit to Paris.
President Xi’s upcoming visit to France is expected to be marked by symbolic gestures, including a lavish dinner at the Elysee Palace and a trip to the Pyrenees mountains. Despite these ceremonial aspects, French officials are skeptical about Macron’s potential for diplomatic success with Xi.
A former European diplomat, speaking anonymously, remarked, “France and the European Union hope that Xi Jinping will leverage his influence on Russia, but the reality is that Xi has little to offer regarding the Ukraine situation.”
During his state visit to France on Monday, Xi will engage in discussions with Macron on a range of issues, including international crises, trade, climate change, and cultural exchanges. However, the primary focus will be on urging China to reconsider its stance on Ukraine, according to sources close to the French government.
Macron had previously urged Xi to intervene with Russia during his visit to China in 2023, emphasizing the importance of stabilizing the international order. However, little progress has been made since then, with Xi scheduled to hold talks with Putin later this month.
Despite the challenges, Macron remains determined to seek Xi’s support in resolving the Ukraine conflict. In a recent interview, Macron emphasized the need to collaborate with China to promote peace and stability globally.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will also participate in discussions with Macron and Xi, underscoring the importance of concerted international efforts to end the conflict.
However, China’s neutral stance on the Ukraine conflict has drawn criticism, with accusations that it has indirectly supported Russia’s military actions. The United States has accused China of providing dual-use supplies to aid Russia’s military efforts, a claim Beijing has vehemently denied.
“Xi Jinping’s priority is the Global South,” said Emmanuel Lincot, a China expert at the Catholic University of Paris.
“There is a congruence in the Sino-Russian bilateral relationship, particularly in the desire to counter the West. Which is not to say that there is no rivalry.”
