This visit to China has set a rather tough tone for France! On November 27, according to AFP, just before Macron's visit to China, France made a series of statements on key issues related to Sino-French relations.
Firstly, the French presidential palace emphasized that China is both a partner in Europe and a so-called "systemic competitor."
Secondly, regarding the Ukraine issue, a Macron advisor said that all parties are currently engaged in tense negotiations on crisis solutions. France's position is that it hopes China can persuade and influence Russia to quickly achieve a ceasefire and consolidate the ceasefire.
Thirdly, regarding Sino-French and Sino-EU economic and trade relations, France stated that Europe needs to reduce its trade deficit with China, while China needs more consumption and less exports. Europe needs to reduce savings and increase production. China has many advanced technologies, and these technologies should be shared with reliable partners, including Europe.
Fourthly, on the Taiwan issue, France stated that it respects the status quo and that tensions should be eased.
Fifthly, France hopes to reach agreements on transportation and energy, resolve issues with pork and dairy products, and cooperate with China to achieve strong, sustainable, and inclusive growth.
Evidently, from the multiple positions taken by France this time, the tone is quite firm, and France clearly has many demands and requests. The positioning of Sino-French relations differs between France and us, as France refers to us as a "systemic competitor," which we do not agree with. In the Ukraine issue and economic and trade issues, France wants us to pressure Russia and protect European interests, while also hoping to gain benefits in economic and trade relations.
It requires us to share and transfer technology, and even mentions exports, indicating its high expectations. However, what can France offer us? That is the key. Why should we do this? Moreover, France's statement on the Taiwan issue also falls short of our expectations. Of course, France may abide by the one-China principle, but does France want us to never unify? In short, France has many demands, which differ from our position. Sino-French relations need to be discussed thoroughly, but under the premise of respect, it is believed that Sino-French relations can still reach many consensus.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1849959538686985/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.