In a recent diplomatic exchange, China’s senior diplomat, Wang Yi, has called upon the European Union (EU) to uphold the values of openness and support free trade, emphasizing the importance of avoiding the pitfalls of protectionism. Wang, who serves as the director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, and is a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, conveyed these sentiments during a phone conversation with Emmanuel Bonne, the diplomatic counselor to French President Emmanuel Macron.
China-France Relations Thriving
During the conversation, Wang Yi highlighted the robust and thriving relationship between China and France, attributing this success to the strategic guidance provided by the leaders of both nations. He acknowledged that exchanges at various levels between the two countries have been fully restored, and practical cooperation across multiple fields has made significant progress. Additionally, Wang expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with France in planning the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the upcoming China-France Year of Culture and Tourism, aiming to inject fresh vitality into bilateral ties.
Wang also stressed the importance of utilizing strategic dialogue and high-level people-to-people exchange mechanisms to deepen political mutual trust, bolster practical cooperation, enhance cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and garner public support for China-France relations.
China-EU Cooperation Takes Center Stage
Moreover, Wang Yi noted that the 20th anniversary of the China-EU comprehensive strategic partnership is being observed this year. He expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with the EU in outlining the next phase of bilateral exchanges, aiming to chart new avenues of cooperation. Wang reiterated China’s commitment to addressing concerns through dialogue and consultation with the EU while hoping that France would play a constructive role in resolving matters related to the anti-subsidy investigation initiated by the European Commission.
In response, Bonne conveyed President Macron’s appreciation for the strong relationship between President Xi Jinping and himself, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining and strengthening high-level exchanges. He commended France and China for their effective communication and coordination in multilateral affairs and looked forward to a new round of strategic dialogue.
France Advocates for Mutual Benefit and Autonomy
Furthermore, Emmanuel Bonne articulated France’s stance on international relations, opposing bloc confrontation and consistently advocating for Europe to maintain its independence and autonomy. He underscored France’s commitment to fostering a mutually beneficial and win-win relationship with China.
Bonne clarified that the anti-subsidy investigation initiated by the European Commission is not targeted at China. This assurance reflects France’s commitment to fair and equitable international trade practices.
In conclusion, the recent conversation between Wang Yi and Emmanuel Bonne highlights the importance of diplomatic cooperation, open trade, and mutual benefit in international relations. As China seeks to strengthen ties with both France and the European Union, the global community watches with anticipation, hoping for a future marked by collaboration, dialogue, and shared prosperity.
