During a diplomatic engagement, Beijing’s premier diplomat, Wang Yi, implored the European Union to uphold open markets, inclusivity, and free trade principles. This appeal transpired in a telephonic conversation with Emmanuel Bonne, the Diplomatic Advisor to the French President, last Friday. Wang voiced concerns over the potential pitfalls of protectionism amidst the prevailing global economic strains.
Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Communist Party of China Central Committee’s Political Bureau and Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, underscored China’s commitment towards amicable resolution of mutual concerns via dialogues and consultations with the European bloc. He expressed optimism for France’s constructive role in navigating issues surrounding anti-subsidy investigations.
On his part, Bonne reassured that the European Commission’s ongoing anti-subsidy investigation is not aimed at undermining China. He affirmed France’s desire for sustaining a mutually beneficial and win-win relationship between the European Union and China.
This discussion transpired against the backdrop of recent remarks by Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission President, who informed EU lawmakers of an impending investigation into alleged “huge subsidies” provided by China to its electric vehicle manufacturing sector.
Wang Yi also reflected on the 20-year-long comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the EU. He extended China’s willingness to collaborate on charting the future course of engagements, aiming to bolster China-EU ties further.
In light of the upcoming 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties and the Year of Culture and Tourism slated for next year, Wang voiced China’s eagerness to fortify the relationship between Beijing and Paris. He urged for maximized strategic dialogues and people-to-people exchanges to foster political trust, deepen practical cooperation, invigorate cultural exchanges, and bolster public support foundation between the two nations.
Expressing appreciation for the established trust and friendship with President Xi Jinping, Bonne mentioned that President Macron is keen on maintaining and augmenting high-level exchanges. He conveyed France’s anticipation for the next round of strategic dialogues with China, amplifying bilateral communication and coordination.
Bonne additionally emphasized Paris’ stance against bloc confrontations, advocating for the maintenance of the European Union’s independence and autonomy. This exchange highlighted the nuanced dynamics of international trade relationships, and the mutual aspiration to fortify diplomatic ties amidst changing global economic landscapes.
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