The Global Times wrote, “It is worth noting that various forces in Europe and the US are paying attention to Macron’s visit and exerting influence in different directions.” “In other words, not everyone wants to see Macron’s visit to China go smoothly and successfully.”
ukraine
Both Macron and von der Leyen have said they want to persuade China to take advantage of closer ties with Russia to bring about peace in Ukraine, or at least prevent Beijing from directly supporting Moscow’s invasion. What Russia calls a “special military operation”.
China earlier this year proposed a 12-point peace plan for the Ukraine crisis, calling for both sides to agree to a gradual de-escalation leading to a comprehensive ceasefire.
The plan was largely dismissed by the West due to China’s refusal to condemn Russia, and the US and NATO then said China was considering sending arms to Russia, which Beijing denied. Is.
Macron, traveling with a 50-strong business delegation including Airbus AIR.PA, luxury giant LVMH LVMH.PA and nuclear power producer EDF EDF.PA, is also looking for economic wins in China and is expected to announce deals.
While the French business community has welcomed Macron’s offer to China, not everyone at home thinks it’s a good signal to send.
“Three-quarters of the delegation are business leaders: the signing of the contract is the goal first and foremost,” Raphael Glucksmann, a leftist member of the European Parliament, wrote on Twitter ahead of Macron’s visit.
“At a time when the debate in Europe is focused on China and our suicidal dependence on Chinese interference, the message is inappropriate.”
