On December 4, 2025, Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing for high-stakes talks aimed at charting a collaborative path forward in a rapidly shifting world order.
Amid growing global challenges – from supply chain disruptions and inflation spikes to the escalating climate crisis – Xi emphasized that China and France must demonstrate their sense of responsibility, uphold the banner of multilateralism and firmly stand on the right side of history.
Macron echoed the call for greater international cooperation, noting that France and the Chinese mainland share a mutual interest in a stable, open global economy and in addressing planetary risks. He added that in an age of fragmentation, this partnership is a beacon for collective action.
Their dialogue covered key areas: green technology, digital innovation and people-to-people exchanges. Both leaders pledged to expand academic and youth programs, aiming to foster cross-cultural understanding at a time when nurturing the next generation of global citizens is more crucial than ever.
Experts say this recommitment to multilateralism comes as France prepares to host next year's APEC Financial Summit, and as China ramps up efforts to coordinate global climate initiatives. According to Lena Dupont, an international relations analyst in Paris, the message is clear – no country can tackle today's crises alone.
With the Paris Olympics just months away and the COP31 climate conference on the horizon, observers see Beijing's welcome for Macron as a signal that both sides are ready to lead by example. Xi noted that history will remember those who choose cooperation over confrontation.
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Xi: China and France should firmly stand on the right side of history
cgtn.com
