France is urging China to send "clear messages" to its ally Russia regarding the war in Ukraine. China has been criticized for not condemning Russia's offensive.
French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne emphasized the importance of China's role in upholding international law and Ukraine's sovereignty during a joint press conference with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing. France has been a strong supporter of Ukraine, while China has been criticized for not condemning Russia's offensive.
The Chinese Position and Public Criticism
In February 2023, the Chinese government released an official statement on the PRC's position on the war between Russia and Ukraine. The statement outlines principles for international relations and conflict resolution, emphasizing the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter. It advocates for abandoning the Cold War mentality by ensuring the security of countries and regions without compromising the security of others and addressing all countries' legitimate security concerns to avoid military bloc expansions. Despite this statement, the international government has criticized the PRC for failing to mediate.
Trade and the War
Ahead of Chinese leader Xi Jinping's visit to France, French Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné discussed trade issues and the war in Ukraine with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, in Beijing, advocating for the rebalancing of the economic partnership between Europe and China. Séjourné emphasized concerns over trade deficits and the impact of low-priced Chinese electric vehicles on European jobs, alongside European complaints about the riskier business environment in China due to changes in national security laws.
