French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has called on China to play a role in bringing Russia to the negotiating table to end the ongoing war in Ukraine. Speaking in Beijing after discussions with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, Barrot emphasized the need for international coordination to achieve a just and lasting peace.
Barrot and Wang met at the Diaoyutai state guesthouse in Beijing, where they held what the French minister described as “frank, constructive, and in-depth discussions.” Highlighting China’s influence, Barrot stated, “China also has a role to play in convincing Russia to come to the negotiating table with serious and good-faith proposals.”
Strengthening Diplomatic and Economic Ties
Beyond the Ukraine conflict, the discussions also addressed economic relations. With both China and the European Union facing trade tensions with the United States, Barrot reaffirmed France’s opposition to trade wars and stressed the importance of dialogue.
“France opposes any form of trade war and advocates dialogue on trade issues, particularly between the European Union and China,” he said, noting efforts to find a “rapid solution” to China’s tariffs on EU brandy imports.
Wang, in response, expressed China’s commitment to enhancing “strategic coordination on international and regional hotspot issues.”
Navigating Diplomatic Differences
China maintains it is a neutral party in the Ukraine war, though it has strengthened political and economic ties with Russia. While NATO members view China as a key enabler of Russia’s war efforts, Beijing has refrained from condemning Moscow.
Acknowledging existing diplomatic gaps, Barrot stated, “Our two countries must therefore work together to foster… dialogue,” adding that Europe is evolving toward strategic autonomy while remaining vigilant in defending its interests and values.
Wang also warned that global instability is on the rise, urging both nations to uphold multilateralism and cooperate for global peace and development.
Promoting Franco-Chinese Relations
During his visit, Barrot engaged with students at Beijing Language and Culture University, emphasizing the significance of learning French and reinforcing Franco-Chinese ties. “More than ever, the current context requires a powerful Franco-Chinese partnership in the service of geopolitical stability, prosperity, and the future of our planet,” he told them.
Later, he met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People. Li echoed concerns about global instability and underscored the necessity of strengthening China-France relations. “As two independent and responsible major countries, China and France should strengthen cooperation,” Li said. “Through our cooperation, we should inject more certainty into bilateral relations and the world.”
Future Engagements
Barrot’s diplomatic tour includes a visit to Shanghai, where he will inaugurate a hydrogen production plant built by Air Liquide and participate in a Franco-Chinese business forum. China has expressed optimism that the visit will deepen cooperation and enhance political trust between the two nations.
The minister’s trip to China is part of a broader tour of Asia, including stops in Indonesia and Singapore, as France continues its engagement with key international partners.
