The administration of French President Emmanuel Macron has reportedly confirmed that it is making preparations for a visit to China, where it hopes to “restart” relations with Beijing and bring about a solution to the Ukraine conflict. This was reported by the France Press agency.
Earlier, the French side appealed to the PRC during a meeting in Paris with Politburo member Wang Yi, head of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CCP Central Committee). “Forward messages” urging Russia to “return to the negotiating table” and cease hostilities in Ukraine.
“Now it’s really time to restart contacts,” said a spokesman for the French presidency. According to him, Paris has not been in direct contact with Beijing for three years. The Elysee Palace noted that they wanted to give “new impetus” to bilateral projects and dialogue on global issues such as climate change or the conflict in Ukraine.
The French side also expects to “restore the balance” to the access of French farmers and aircraft manufacturers to the Chinese market.
Previously reportedPolitburo member Wang Yi, Chairman of the Committee on Foreign Relations of the Communist Party of China (CCP Central Committee), will pay a working visit to France, Italy, Hungary and Russia on February 14-22. It was noted that Wang Yi will visit these countries at the invitation of their governments. The dates and times the diplomat will visit these countries are not specified.