French President Emmanuel Macron has called for an update to the economic relationship with China as Chinese leader Xi Jinping is set to embark on a state visit to France. Macron, in an interview with La Tribune Dimanche, emphasized the need for a more reciprocal economic relationship with China to better ensure Europe’s economic security.
Using the Italian term “aggiornamento,” Macron stated, “I am calling for an ‘update’ because China currently has excess capacity in many areas and exports heavily to Europe.”
He clarified in the interview, “Let me be clear: I am not suggesting distancing from China. Whether it’s climate issues or security matters, we need China.”
Xi Jinping is expected to arrive in France on Sunday to kick off his five-day European tour, amid one of the most tense periods in the China-EU relationship in decades. The EU has initiated a series of investigations into China’s excessive subsidies and condemned Chinese espionage activities and state-sponsored cyber attacks.
Despite Macron’s support for the EU’s major investigation into Chinese electric cars at the end of last year, he is also making efforts to attract investment from the world’s second-largest economy.
In a lengthy interview with The Economist, Macron welcomed President Xi’s visit, stating, “We must engage with China on global issues as much as possible and engage in exchanges on the basis of mutually beneficial economic relations.” He emphasized that in dealing with China today, Europe should do so “in a way that preserves our interests, promotes reciprocity, and advances national security.”
According to a report from Bloomberg on Saturday, while Macron takes a tough stance on economic issues, he is still defending Europe’s role as a balancing force, enabling China to continue participating in global discussions.
After hosting Xi Jinping at the Elysée Palace in Paris, Macron will accompany the Chinese guest to a small town in the Pyrenees, which he refers to as his second hometown as his grandmother rests there. Last year, during Macron’s visit to China, he was warmly received by Xi Jinping at the former residence of his father, Xi Zhongxun.