BEIJING, March 27 – China and France will hold three high-level dialogues on strategic, economic, financial, and cultural issues in 2025, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced after meeting his French counterpart, Jean-Noel Barrot, in Beijing.
The talks, held at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse, focused on strengthening bilateral relations and China-EU ties amid global trade tensions. Wang emphasized that both nations, as comprehensive strategic partners, should uphold multilateralism and oppose unilateralism in response to shifting international dynamics.
Both sides agreed to deepen cooperation in agriculture, nuclear energy, aviation, and aerospace while exploring new industries such as artificial intelligence, the digital economy, green hydrogen, and bio-manufacturing. Wang also encouraged more Chinese enterprises to invest in France.
Trade tensions between the EU and China loomed over the discussions, with Barrot advocating for a resolution, particularly concerning China’s high tariffs on European brandy imports, which have severely impacted French cognac exports. He reaffirmed France’s opposition to trade wars and its commitment to dialogue.
On geopolitical issues, Barrot urged China to play a constructive role in persuading Russia to engage in serious negotiations over the Ukraine war. Both ministers also highlighted their countries’ commitment to climate governance, with France calling for stronger Chinese participation in ocean conservation initiatives.
The meeting underscored the growing partnership between China and France, with both nations committed to enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors while navigating complex trade and security challenges.