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The header discusses Macron's strategic moves in engaging with Xi Jinping and China's long-term strategies. It delves into Macron's attempts to strengthen diplomatic ties with China while also analyzing China's strategic outlook and how it aligns with Macron's efforts. The header suggests a nuanced exploration of diplomatic relations and geopolitical maneuvers between France and China under Macron's leadership.
As the French President endeavors to move past the prevailing transatlantic approach to Europe’s security, China seems prepared to capitalize on discrepancies within the continent.
Emmanuel Macron, accompanied by his wife Brigitte Macron, welcomed Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan to the Pyrenees mountains, a location familiar to the French President from his childhood visits to see his grandmother, on Tuesday. A day earlier, on Monday, the Chinese First Lady toured the Orsay Museum in Paris with the French First Lady.
The Chinese President's two-day visit to France is part of Xi's broader tour of Europe, which also includes stops in Serbia and Hungary. Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, both Serbia and Hungary have maintained close relations with Russia. Xi's tour of Europe will conclude on Friday.
During Xi's visit to France, the red carpet was rolled out for the Chinese President as Macron hosted a state dinner for him at the Elysee Palace. This marked Xi's first trip to Europe in five years as the General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party. Despite Paris' historical association with liberal ideals, symbolized by the French Revolution, the streets were adorned with both Chinese and French flags, welcoming an authoritarian leader in a manner reminiscent of the revolutionary figure Robespierre. However, amidst the welcoming atmosphere, protesters donning Tibetan flags demonstrated in support of the rights of Tibetan and Uighur communities, which the West vehemently advocates for.
The visit commemorated 60 years of diplomatic ties between Paris and Beijing, with France being the inaugural Western nation to formally acknowledge the People’s Republic of China on January 27, 1964.
Macron's recent interview with The Economist sheds light on the rationale behind this warm reception. In it, the French President labeled the conflict in Ukraine as an existential peril to Europe, highlighting his reputation as one of the most vigilant leaders concerning continental security.
Macron has been pushing for a more "independent" security strategy for Europe, advocating a departure from the transatlantic approach and advocating for reduced reliance on the US or NATO to safeguard Europe's security.
The French President posed a critical question: "If Russia prevails in Ukraine, can we expect security in Europe to be maintained? Who can assert that Russia's ambitions will cease there?"
The Elysee Palace stated last week that discussions would primarily center on international crises, notably the conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East situation. This statement preceding Xi's visit underscores France's intention to involve Beijing in two significant global crises affecting Europe's security. Given Ukraine's conflict poses an existential threat to the continent and the Middle East turmoil impacts radical Islamic sentiments, France seeks engagement on these critical issues.
While Beijing declares neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, it maintains a "no-limits partnership" with Moscow. Additionally, China has cordial relations with Iran and played a role in the previously praised Saudi-Iran reconciliation. Clearly, China possesses its own diplomatic assets. According to an unnamed French diplomat cited by Le Monde, engaging China remains crucial, given its significant influence to sway Moscow's position.
Ahead of Russian President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to China, Macron likely endeavored to persuade Xi to encourage Russia to participate in Switzerland talks next month. These discussions aim to address Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s '10-point plan,' initially proposed in late 2022 but dismissed by Moscow. Approximately 160 delegations have purportedly received invitations to the talks.
Since March 2019, the European Union has designated China as a "systemic rival," with France being a crucial member, representing the EU on the UN Security Council. However, the EU's stance on China varies among its 27 members, particularly between France and Germany, emphasizing engagement with the growing Asian power. Despite this, Europe remains cautious of China's business practices, as evidenced by the EU's investigation into Chinese subsidies for electric vehicle manufacturers, a significant case reminiscent of past disputes. Additionally, Western attempts to address human rights issues with China have often been met with indifference.
Macron's advocacy for "strategic autonomy" could present an opportunity for Xi Jinping to exploit. Xi's remarks upon arrival emphasized the exemplary nature of Sino-French relations. Macron stressed the importance of China's role in maintaining international order and the need to collaborate for peace. Despite aligning with the US against Russia's actions in Ukraine, France's resentment over the AUKUS agreement persists, as evidenced by the unprecedented recall of the French ambassador amid the fallout.
Many experts argue that US policies, particularly concerning the Russia-Ukraine conflict, have strengthened Moscow's ties with Beijing and further fragmented Europe. Xi's visit to Serbia, following his trip to France, was met with a warm reception, highlighting the strong bond between Belgrade and Beijing. The timing coincided with the 25th anniversary of the US bombing of China's embassy in Belgrade, symbolizing a pivotal moment in the US-led global order. Despite seeking EU membership, Serbia maintains close relations with Russia amid the Ukraine crisis.
According to the BBC, China asserts itself as the primary source of foreign direct investment in Serbia. Xi Jinping has commended Budapest for its "independent" foreign policy, which challenges great power dynamics, even before his meeting with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban. Hungary, a member of the EU and NATO, signed the first Belt and Road Initiative cooperation agreement with China. Orban's government diverges from EU policies on various issues, positioning Hungary as a strategic location for China in Europe.
France, China, Serbia, and Hungary all have vested strategic interests in Xi's visit, reflecting a reaction to US policies and a shift away from Washington's influence. This trip underscores the diminishing sway of the US in the region and growing skepticism towards NATO and Washington's leadership. It also highlights the repercussions of NATO's stance on the Russia-Ukraine conflict, which China appears to exploit to its advantage.
Besides seeking global recognition as a rising superpower, China also aims to portray itself as a responsible international player, particularly to its domestic audience. This self-image is crucial for China's portrayal as a graceful swan navigating serene international waters. This narrative has been carefully cultivated during Xi's recent tour, as highlighted in Vijay Gokhale's book "The Long Game".
Source: firstpost
