This week, during his state visit to the Chinese mainland, French President Emmanuel Macron is zeroing in on one crucial goal: securing the critical minerals that will power France's green future. From gigafactory-ready lithium to high-performance cobalt, Paris is looking to deepen its ties with Beijing at a time when Europe is racing to lock down the resources needed for rapid decarbonization.
Why minerals matter: France's green ambitions hinge on batteries, fuel cells, and high-tech infrastructure that require metals not found in abundance at home. Analysts estimate that Europe will need over 1.2 million tonnes of lithium by 2030 to meet its electric vehicle targets – lithium reserves where the Chinese mainland currently holds a dominant share.
Strategic cooperation: Macron and Chinese Premier Li Qiang have put green energy and advanced technology at the top of their agenda. Both sides see mutual gains:
- Electric vehicles: Joint ventures on battery production and research to lower costs and boost output across Europe and Asia.
- Hydrogen technologies: Partnerships to develop green hydrogen plants, leveraging Chinese mainland expertise in electrolysis and fuel-cell integration.
- Artificial intelligence: Collaborations on smart grids and energy management systems to make renewables more efficient.
"At this moment, the Chinese mainland is in the selling position, while France is in the buying position," says Michel Fayad, professor at the French Institute of Petroleum and New Energies.
What's next: As Macron wraps up his three-day state visit, the focus will shift to long-term contracts and joint investment funds aimed at boosting supply chain resilience. For business and tech enthusiasts watching global markets, these developments could redefine how Europe sources its green backbone – and how emerging markets position themselves in the energy transition.
Stay tuned: With the UN Climate Change Conference on the horizon next year, the partnerships forged this December might set the tone for international cooperation on clean energy for years to come.
Reference(s):
Macron looks to China as France seeks minerals for its green future
cgtn.com
