On a recent diplomatic trip charting the course for the future, Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visits to France, Serbia and Hungary, from May 5 to 10, have marked a significant stride in fortifying China's ties with these European nations. This tour was Xi's first international trip of 2024. Over the course of six days, Xi participated in more than 30 events, consolidating bilateral relations and heralding a new era of collaboration between China and the European Union (EU), according to Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Speaking at a press briefing on May 11, Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized that the journey carried a profound commitment to deepening friendships, enhancing mutual trust and crafting a visionary blueprint for future collaborations.

Upholding independence

In a signed article published by French newspaper Le Figaro on May 5, Xi cited French literary giant Romain Rolland, remarking, "It is so much easier to allow oneself to be guided than it is to think for oneself. This abdication is the kernel of mischief." In his article, Xi underscored the shared values of independence between China and France, which he considers is pivotal for major countries.

Emphasizing France's tradition of independent thought in his article, Xi further highlighted the influence of General Charles de Gaulle, who became president of the French Republic in 1959. Guided by Gaullist principles, France then became the first major Western nation to establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China in 1964.

And so this year marks the 60th anniversary of this crucial relationship, offering an excellent opportunity to strengthen China-France ties. On the traditional Chinese lunisolar calendar, 60 years complete a full cycle, symbolizing a time of heritage and renewal. Reflecting on this period, the bilateral trade between China and France has increased nearly 800-fold since the start of their diplomatic ties. Today, China is France's largest trading partner outside the EU, highlighting a longstanding and successful partnership.

During a meeting in the department of Hautes-Pyrenees in southwest France on May 7, intimate discussions unfolded between the Chinese and French leaders. Macron stressed the critical role of Sino-European collaboration in shaping Europe's future. Highlighting the precarious nature of the current international landscape, he asserted the necessity for Europe to preserve its strategic autonomy and unity. "Developing sound relations with China and enhancing both bilateral and multilateral cooperation are imperative," Macron emphasized.

On the same day, the leaders of China and France issued a joint statement regarding the situation in the Middle East. They called for an immediate and lasting ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and urged observance of the Olympic truce during the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics set to unfold in Paris in July. This joint declaration highlights the values of multilateralism and international cooperation by advocating for a fair resolution to the Palestinian question.

New cooperation trends

During his visit, Xi has not dodged the issue of China-EU trade friction. On May 6, at a trilateral meeting with Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen at the Elysée Palace in Paris, Xi highlighted the opportunities for deeper cooperation between China and Europe in the arenas of green and digital transformations. He underscored resolving trade frictions through dialogue and negotiation, respecting each side's legitimate concerns.

In response to so-called "problem of overcapacity" in China's electric vehicle (EV) sector, Xi stated that Chinese enterprises have made real progress in open competition and represent advanced production capacity. The growth of this sector not only contributes to the diversification of the global supply chain, in turn alleviating inflationary pressures courtesy of affordable prices, but also plays a crucial role in global climate change mitigation efforts and the transition to greener economies.

On the same day, the Sixth Meeting of the China-France Business Council took place in Paris, where businesses from both nations explored sectors such as power energy, advanced manufacturing, biomedicine and financial services, but with the greatest emphasis being on the green low-carbon economy and the digital economy.

The agreements signed after the meeting reflect a shift in China-France collaboration, moving from traditional sectors like nuclear power and aviation to embrace new-energy sources and green technologies. These projects span several areas including the aviation industry, low-carbon transportation solutions, intelligent manufacturing, environmental sustainability, and green finance. In particular, Chinese and French companies have fostered "two-way efforts" of investments, leveraging each other's strengths and exploring third-party market opportunities.

For example, Électricité de France Group and the State Power Investment Corp. of China have deepened cooperation by signing a new agreement focused on green hydrogen and comprehensive intelligent energy services.

In Hungary, the last stop of Xi's visit, prominent Chinese EV manufacturer BYD has unveiled plans for a new EV production facility in Szeged, Hungary's third largest city. Set for completion by December 2023, this project represents the largest single foreign investment in Hungary's history. Adding to this momentum, other leading Chinese EV firms like NIO, as well as Contemporary Amperex Technology Co. Ltd.—the world's foremost producer of EV batteries—are also expanding their operations in Hungary. These expansions underscore the growing prominence of Chinese enterprises in the global EV market, particularly in Eastern Europe.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán did not hesitate to state his commitment to deepening relations with China when he had talks with Xi, leaving no room for any concerns that "overcapacity" and a need for "de-risking" might have raised. His stance reaffirms the commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation.

Additionally, an agreement to bolster supply chain collaborations between businesses from both countries was signed, and Hungary will be a guest country of honor at the Second China International Supply Chain Expo in Beijing this November, further expanding trade and investment prospects.

First Lady diplomacy

On May 8, the National Museum of Serbia in Belgrade became a focal point for cultural diplomacy as it hosted an event that symbolized the deepening cultural ties between China and Serbia. Peng Liyuan, wife of President Xi, accompanied by Tamara Vučić, spouse of Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, explored the museum's impressive collections, marking a pivotal moment in the diplomatic interactions of both nations.

A highlight was their detailed examination of the rich embroidery traditions of both countries. Peng, with palpable enthusiasm, discussed these intricate art forms, highlighting their shared cultural heritage and advocating for collaborative initiatives to preserve these traditions. "It's vital for the youth in our countries to engage in preserving these age-old handicrafts," she stated, pushing for educational programs that could foster these skills for future generations.

Beyond the museum tour, Peng's itinerary included over 20 events across three countries, where she engaged in warm exchanges with other first ladies, local women and students. She called for more cultural and educational exchanges, and encouraged them to learn more about Chinese language and culture.

On May 6, before arriving in Serbia, Peng was honored at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) headquarters in Paris, where she received an honorary certificate marking her one decade as special envoy for advancing girls' and women's education.

First Lady diplomacy plays a big role in enhancing soft power diplomacy. It not only fortifies international relationships but also presents a country's cultural and compassionate image, complementing the more formal aspects of state diplomacy. During Xi's visit to Europe, cultural arts and youth exchanges were emphasized as key themes.

Peng has significantly contributed to enhancing China's global image, demonstrating the soft yet powerful influence of cultural diplomacy.

(Print Edition Title: Embroidering A Shared Future) 

Copyedited by Elsbeth van Paridon

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