In Paris, France, on Monday, Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived for a two-day state visit. The visit comes at a pivotal moment, with international political and economic issues at the forefront, including the ongoing trade war between Beijing and Europe. To commemorate the 60th anniversary of Franco-Chinese diplomatic relations, established by General de Gaulle, French President Emmanuel Macron personally welcomed President Xi Jinping.
Accompanied by his wife Brigitte, President Macron will host the Chinese presidential couple at the iconic Col du Tourmalet and the La Mongie ski resort in the Pyrenees. This gesture holds sentimental value for Macron as he spent part of his childhood in this region. The informal lunch meeting, with only interpreters present, aims to create a personal connection between the two leaders.
However, despite efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties through personal gestures, it remains uncertain if this visit will ease tensions in the ongoing dialogue between France and China. The visit is seen as a symbolic step towards fostering positive relations between the two countries amid broader global challenges.