China, France commit to strengthening bilateral cooperation, explore global challenges

China is ready to work with France, guided by the important consensus reached by their presidents, to continuously advance cooperation in diverse fields, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said.

Wang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made these remarks during a meeting with his French counterpart Jean-Noel Barrot after attending the Munich Security Conference, Caliber.Az reports citing Chinese media.

Wang highlighted the significance of Chinese President Xi Jinping's historic visit to France last year, which marked the 60th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties and opened a new chapter in China-France relations.

"China and France are both permanent members of the United Nations (UN) Security Council and major countries of global influence," Wang said. He added that their relationship holds strategic value and exemplary significance beyond the bilateral level, particularly as the world observes the 80th anniversary of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the UN this year.

Wang emphasized that both sides should continue to uphold their tradition of independence and self-reliance, embrace openness and win-win cooperation, and act as stabilizing forces in maintaining international order and promoting global growth.

On the issue of trade frictions, which have surfaced in the course of cooperation between China and the European Union (EU), Wang expressed confidence in the ability of China, France, and the EU to resolve these matters effectively.

"As comprehensive strategic partners, China and France -- as well as China and the EU -- have the wisdom and capability to properly resolve these issues," Wang said.

He urged the EU to maintain open cooperation, support free trade, and work together with China while addressing each other's legitimate concerns. He also reiterated China's readiness for continued constructive dialogue with the EU on these matters.

Barrot expressed France’s appreciation for China's firm and clear stance on supporting multilateralism at the Munich Security Conference, acknowledging China's important role as a stabilizing force in global governance. He further stated, "France and China should work together to play a leadership role in upholding multilateralism and improving international governance."

France, Barrot continued, will continue to adhere to the one-China policy and is ready to strengthen high-level exchanges with China, making full use of the high-level dialogue mechanism. He also expressed France's support for strengthening economic and trade relations between France and China, as well as between the EU and China, while addressing trade differences and opposing protectionism.

The two officials also discussed several global issues, including artificial intelligence, climate change, and maritime cooperation. They agreed on the importance of enhancing cooperation in global governance and promoting international solidarity in tackling global challenges.

Regarding the Ukraine conflict, Wang reiterated China's position and principles, expressing hope for steady progress in peace talks based on the consensus of all parties. He emphasized the importance of establishing a balanced, effective, and sustainable European security framework to achieve long-term peace and stability on the continent.

The two sides also agreed to strengthen communication and coordination on the Gaza conflict, with a shared commitment to promoting de-escalation and working towards the "two-state solution." Additionally, they exchanged views on the Iran nuclear issue and other international matters.

By Vafa Guliyeva