On Sunday, Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Orly and began a two-day state visit to Paris. The trip is taking place at a crucial time, with international political and economic issues at the forefront, including the ongoing trade war between Beijing and Europe.
French President Emmanuel Macron personally welcomed President Xi Jinping, commemorating the 60th anniversary of Franco-Chinese diplomatic relations, established by General de Gaulle. In honor of this milestone, Macron will host the Chinese presidential couple at the iconic Col du Tourmalet and the La Mongie ski resort in the Pyrenees region. This location holds sentimental value for Macron as it is where he spent part of his childhood.
The informal lunch meeting, with only interpreters present, aims to create a personal connection between the two leaders. This gesture mirrors their meeting in China last year. While efforts are being made to strengthen diplomatic ties through personal gestures, it remains uncertain if this visit will ease tensions in the ongoing dialogue between France and China. The visit is seen as a symbolic step towards fostering positive relations between the two countries amid broader global challenges.