China and France Deepen Cooperation in Various Sectors

During a Sino-French economic and financial dialogue held in Beijing, the Chinese Vice Premier, He Lifeng, expressed China's desire to deepen cooperation with France in various sectors, including finance, trade, science, and technological innovation. He also called on France to contribute to improving relations between China and the European Union. He Lifeng emphasized that the bilateral ties between China and France are built on a solid foundation. France is currently China's third-largest trading partner, but French companies are increasingly concerned about being caught in the crossfire of the growing economic rivalry between the two global superpowers.

Bruno Le Maire's Challenging Visit to China

French Minister of Economy, Bruno Le Maire, is embarking on a challenging visit to China this weekend. This comes three months after the controversial trip made by the French President to Beijing and a month after the visit of the Chinese Premier to Paris. The economic issues to be discussed during the visit are numerous but often contentious, especially considering the geopolitical tensions surrounding Taiwan. France seems to be seeking a middle ground between the United States and China. However, according to a study by the Berlin-based think tank, Merics, France's China policy is ambiguous and lacks a clear roadmap. Paris aims to preserve its economic interests while reducing its dependence on China, striking a delicate balance between allowing Chinese products into the market while not completely intertwining the economies.

Bruno Le Maire Woos Chinese Investors in Beijing

French Minister of Economy, Bruno Le Maire, advocated for increased Chinese investments in France during his visit to Beijing. He specifically mentioned the electric vehicle, battery, and energy transition sectors as areas where Chinese investors are welcome. Le Maire highlighted the collaboration between the Chinese company XTC and the French nuclear giant Orano in Dunkirk's battery project, as well as the battery factory in Douai, jointly owned by the Sino-Japanese company Envision. However, Le Maire also cautioned that investments should be evaluated based on their impact on sovereignty. The French minister's remarks came during a high-level Sino-French economic and financial dialogue, co-chaired by He Lifeng, the Chinese Vice Premier responsible for economic and financial matters. The dialogue covered a wide range of topics, including global financial stability, sustainable financing for developing economies, climate change, food security, and biodiversity.

Words of the day

Cooperation : Coopération

Investments : Investissements