"China-France Diplomatic Ties Are an Event Where Two Civilizations Joined Hands"... Xi Jinping and Macron Reaffirm 'Friendship and Cooperation'

Visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site Dujiangyan Irrigation System
Macron: "Paying tribute to Chinese wisdom and diligence"
President Xi: "Our countries share a spirit of independence and autonomy"
Reuters: "A diplomatic gesture of special consideration for Europe's second-largest economy"

On December 5, Chinese President Xi Jinping and French President Emmanuel Macron held an informal meeting in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, China, where they engaged in an in-depth dialogue based on the cultural understanding between the two countries. Chinese state media outlets Xinhua News Agency and CCTV reported that the two leaders, representing the historical and cultural powers of East and West, reaffirmed their 'friendship and cooperation' during this occasion.

Xi Jinping and President Macron held a private meeting. Photo captured from CGTN.

The meeting took place on the final day of President Macron's state visit to China, and the venue was the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, constructed in the 3rd century BC and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000.

The two leaders and their spouses walked together at the Dujiangyan site, sharing the historical significance and value of civilization. President Xi emphasized, "The construction process of Dujiangyan demonstrates the pioneering spirit of the Chinese nation," adding, "The water management policies for the people are a legacy that reflects the wisdom of our ancestors."

In response, President Macron said, "I pay tribute to the wisdom and diligence of the Chinese people, as it is remarkable that a water management facility built 2,000 years ago is still functioning today," and added, "Both France and China are countries with brilliant cultures, and through the synergy of cooperation, we can pursue shared prosperity."

The two leaders then sat together at the 'Huaiguting' pavilion, enjoying tea and exchanging views on the global situation. President Xi explained, "Our two countries share a spirit of independence and autonomy, which stems from our respective deep cultural foundations," and added, "The establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France is more than a simple diplomatic handshake; it is an event where two civilizations joined hands."

President Macron also stated, "In a complex and uncertain international order, France wishes to strengthen coordination and cooperation with China," and proposed, "Let us work together to resolve conflicts through dialogue and jointly safeguard world peace and stability."

It is considered unusual for President Macron to be welcomed not in Beijing but in a regional city like Chengdu. Foreign media analyzed this as a diplomatic message from China, highlighting the importance it places on France's status within the European Union. Reuters reported, "President Xi Jinping's decision to leave Beijing and accompany President Macron to Chengdu was a special gesture for France, the second-largest economy in Europe," adding, "This move demonstrates that China regards France as a key partner in its Europe-focused diplomatic strategy within the EU."