France Urges Multilateralism and Strengthened Ties with China Amid Trade and Security Tensions with the US
France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has called for a “powerful Franco-Chinese partnership” in response to the geopolitical upheaval caused by the Trump administration’s “America First” policy. Barrot made the remarks during his meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, where they discussed the Ukraine war and ongoing trade disputes between China and Europe.
“More than ever, the current context requires a powerful Franco-Chinese partnership in the service of geopolitical stability, prosperity, and the future of our planet,” Barrot said in a speech to students at the Beijing Language and Culture University on Thursday morning.
The talks between Paris and Beijing come as tensions between the United States and the European Union escalate across multiple fronts, including support for Ukraine, security, and trade. US President Donald Trump has taken unilateral steps to engage with Russian President Vladimir Putin in an effort to end the war in Ukraine, while also declaring that Washington will not take responsibility for Europe’s security.
On Thursday, Trump announced a 25% tariff on auto imports, a move that will significantly impact European carmakers. This latest levy follows earlier tariffs imposed on both allies and adversaries. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen criticized the tariffs, stating they would be “bad for businesses” and “worse for consumers.”
Paris hopes the discussions with Beijing will focus on resolving the war in Ukraine and addressing trade tensions between China and the European Union. In October, China imposed provisional tariffs ranging from 30.6% to 39% on European brandy imports, shortly after the EU voted to impose tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. This move particularly affected French cognac brands, causing their export value to shrink by nearly a quarter last year.
“France opposes any form of trade war and advocates dialogue on trade issues, particularly between the European Union and China,” Barrot said after meeting Wang at Beijing’s Diaoyutai guesthouse on Thursday.
‘Constructive’ Talks
Wang described the meeting as “constructive,” noting that discussions covered bilateral relations and China-EU ties. He emphasized that both countries would utilize the consultation mechanism between their foreign ministries to deepen communication on shared issues.
“In the face of profound changes in the international landscape, both sides should, as comprehensive strategic partners, demonstrate historical awareness, uphold multilateralism, and oppose unilateralism,” Wang told reporters after the meeting.
While Wang avoided addressing the trade dispute directly, Barrot stressed the importance of resolving it. He reiterated France’s opposition to trade wars and its commitment to dialogue, particularly in defense of the French cognac industry.
On Friday, Barrot is scheduled to travel to Shanghai for meetings with local officials and business leaders.
US-Europe Tensions
Barrot’s two-day visit also serves as an opportunity to gauge China’s stance on Ukraine ahead of a major France-hosted meeting on a potential peacekeeping force for the country. The French foreign minister suggested that China could play a role in bringing Russia to the negotiating table to end the war.
“France and China must … coordinate to promote a just and lasting peace in Ukraine,” Barrot said alongside Wang. “China also has a role to play in convincing Russia to come to the negotiating table with serious and good-faith proposals.”
The talks occur as tensions between the US and Europe over support for Ukraine grow, with Washington increasingly perceived as backing Moscow. French President Emmanuel Macron recently proposed that a European armed force could be deployed in Ukraine under a future peace deal and could “respond” to any Russian aggression.
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