In a surprising move signaling a commitment to bilateral relations,French President Emmanuel Macron concluded the European leg of his diplomatic tour with an unannounced visit to Chengdu,China,on April 6,2023. Hosted personally by Chinese President Xi Jinping-a rare gesture of protocol-the visit included meetings, a customary tea ceremony, and a tour of the historic Dujiangyan Irrigation System. the meeting comes as both nations navigate complex geopolitical and economic challenges, and seek to reaffirm cooperation amid ongoing global trade tensions.
Xi Jinping Personally Accompanies Macron on Unannounced Chengdu Visit
Chinese President Xi Jinping made a rare and personal gesture, accompanying French President Emmanuel Macron on a visit to Chengdu, Sichuan province, on Thursday, April 6, 2023. The visit, which included a tea ceremony and lunch, took place during Macron’s state visit to China and signals a commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
The two leaders held an informal meeting in Chengdu, according to reports from DW News. The meeting took place after Macron arrived in China on Wednesday, April 5, for a three-day visit aimed at bolstering European ties with the world’s second-largest economy.
State news agency Xinhua reported that Xi and Macron held talks in Chengdu, but provided limited details about the discussions. The meeting is seen as an effort to address trade imbalances and geopolitical tensions between Europe and China.
The visit to Chengdu included a stop at the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, an ancient engineering marvel, and a tea ceremony, highlighting cultural exchange alongside diplomatic discussions. Guangming Daily described the meeting as an opportunity for France and China to “walk more steadily and better” in a “new甲子” (a 60-year cycle in the Chinese calendar), signifying a long-term commitment to cooperation.
Global media outlets are closely following Macron’s trip, with China Daily noting that the visit is considered significant for multiple reasons, including the potential for revitalizing global trade.
China.com published a commentary framing the visit as a new beginning for Sino-French relations, emphasizing the potential for deepened cooperation in a changing global landscape. The visit underscores the importance both nations place on maintaining a strong relationship despite ongoing international challenges.
