Fri Dec 05 06:59:48 UTC 2025: News Article:
Macron and Xi Pledge Deeper Cooperation Amidst Tensions, Highlighted by Rare Diplomatic Gesture
Chengdu, China – French President Emmanuel Macron concluded a three-day visit to China on Friday with pledges of deeper cooperation on global issues, particularly amidst rising international tensions and trade imbalances. The visit was punctuated by a rare and symbolic gesture from Chinese President Xi Jinping, who accompanied Macron to Chengdu, a move considered outside of standard diplomatic protocol.
Macron expressed that he was “very touched” by Xi’s decision to host him in Chengdu, following Macron’s hosting of Xi in the Pyrenees in May 2024. This gesture, he said, signifies mutual trust and a shared desire to “act together.”
The leaders’ meeting in Chengdu followed more formal discussions in Beijing on Thursday, where the focus was on pressing issues such as the war in Ukraine and international trade. Macron sought China’s involvement in urging Russia toward a ceasefire, emphasizing the risk of “disintegration of the international order.” While Xi did not directly respond to Macron’s call, he stated that “China supports all efforts that work towards peace” and advocated for a peace deal acceptable to all parties.
Despite differing stances on the Ukraine conflict, the two nations inked 12 cooperation agreements in Beijing, spanning areas like population ageing, nuclear energy, and panda conservation. On Friday in Chengdu, they also signed an agreement regarding the export of French alfalfa to China, and made progress on registering French pig white viscera exporters for trade.
Macron’s visit to Chengdu included a meeting with students, while his wife, Brigitte Macron, visited the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, highlighting the cultural and symbolic significance of the trip.
First Piper 