China and France have reaffirmed their commitment to deeper cooperation after President Xi Jinping accompanied French President Emmanuel Macron on a visit to Chengdu, a gesture that Macron described as deeply meaningful and a notable break from traditional protocol. The joint appearance highlighted efforts by both countries to reinforce political trust and expand collaboration in areas including trade, climate action and cultural exchange.
Macron said he was “very touched” by Xi’s decision to travel with him, noting that such personal diplomacy signals a desire to elevate bilateral ties. Chinese officials emphasised that France remains a key partner within the European Union and that Beijing sees strengthened engagement with Paris as essential for maintaining stable relations with Europe.
During the trip, the two leaders discussed global security, economic recovery and cooperation on clean energy technologies. Both sides expressed interest in expanding investment opportunities and facilitating business exchanges. France also reiterated its support for maintaining open channels of dialogue with China, even amid broader European concerns about trade imbalances and strategic dependencies.
The visit comes at a time when China is seeking to stabilise relations with major Western economies while France positions itself as an independent actor capable of engaging Beijing without compromising its broader European commitments. Analysts say the Chengdu trip underscores Xi’s willingness to use symbolic diplomacy to reinforce ties with select partners.
Both leaders signalled that they intend to maintain momentum through continued high level exchanges and practical cooperation across multiple sectors. The warm optics of the Chengdu visit suggest a shared desire to keep the relationship steady despite complex global dynamics.
