Beijing – In a significant diplomatic meeting, Wang Yi, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, and Emmanuel Bonne, Diplomatic Counselor to the French President, held the 24th China-France Strategic Dialogue in Beijing. The dialogue was marked by friendly and in-depth discussions on various fronts, including China-France and China-European Union (EU) relations, and key international and regional matters. The parties committed to utilizing this strategic dialogue to bolster bilateral relations and address global challenges effectively.
Wang Yi emphasized the evolving and tumultuous international landscape, underlining the stability and progress achieved in China-France relations under the strategic guidance of both nations’ leaders. Acknowledging the global uncertainties, he stressed the need for China and France, as independent major countries, to uphold the shared understanding of their leaders, promote mutual respect, win-win cooperation, and exchanges, and foster a dynamic, comprehensive strategic partnership. The aim is to advance China-EU relations and support the international community’s solidarity and progress.
He pointed out that the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France, set to occur next year, is a significant milestone and new beginning. Wang Yi expressed China’s readiness to follow through on the common understandings of their leaders, bolster public support, unleash cooperation potential in the post-pandemic era, strengthen political mutual trust, and elevate the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. He also welcomed more French companies to invest in China and called for a fairer business environment for Chinese companies in France.
Emmanuel Bonne praised the comprehensive and strategic partnership established between France and China, highlighting its global significance in contributing to world peace and stability. He emphasized France’s commitment to deepening relations with China and expressed confidence in China’s role in the world. As 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations, France is eager to work closely with China to plan celebration events, deepen cooperation in various fields, and enhance mutual understanding and benefits for both nations. Bonne stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation between France and China in a divided world, including playing their roles as permanent members of the Security Council to promote solidarity and address global challenges.
The two sides discussed China-EU relations, with Wang Yi underscoring the partnership between China and the EU and the need for pragmatic and rational cooperation, free from external interference, to ensure stable development. Emmanuel Bonne expressed France’s commitment to advancing EU-China cooperation and emphasized the importance of joint coordination on international issues.
Additionally, the dialogue covered global topics such as the Ukraine crisis, the Palestine-Israel conflict, climate change, and artificial intelligence. This strategic dialogue represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing cooperation between China and France, aimed at promoting global stability and progress.