French President Emmanuel Macron and EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen pressed Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday to address trade imbalances with Europe, emphasizing the need for fairer market access.
Despite the discussions, Xi showed reluctance to offer significant concessions during his first visit to Europe in five years.
Von der Leyen highlighted the EU’s stance on protecting its market from over-production and unfair trade practices, signaling potential sanctions if necessary.
Macron echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Europe’s open market while addressing imbalances.
While Xi acknowledged the need for dialogue to address economic frictions, he downplayed concerns about China’s over-capacity, sparking further discussion on trade issues.
Macron’s diplomatic gifts included cognac from French companies affected by China’s anti-dumping investigation, highlighting the complexities of trade relations.
Xi’s visit comes amidst growing tensions between Europe, the US, and China, with concerns about trade imbalances and unequal market access dominating discussions.
Despite calls for cooperation, differences in approach among EU member states, particularly France and Germany, add complexity to trade negotiations.
Amidst the diplomatic talks, China is expected to announce a significant order of Airbus aircraft, underscoring the interdependence between European and Chinese economies.
The visit also includes cultural elements, with Macron inviting Xi to the Pyrenees, showcasing the personal significance of the region to the French president.
