In a pivotal meeting on March 27, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot called on China to leverage its influence in bringing Russia to the negotiating table to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at Beijing’s Diaoyutai state guesthouse, Barrot emphasized the need for China’s cooperation in fostering peace.

As France and China strive to enhance their bilateral relations in recent years, concerns over Beijing's strengthening ties with Moscow since the invasion of Ukraine have been a pressing issue for Paris. Following their discussions, Barrot noted their deliberations were “frank, constructive, and in-depth,” focusing heavily on the geopolitical crisis in Eastern Europe. “China has a role to play in convincing Russia to engage with meaningful proposals,” he urged, highlighting the critical nature of dialogue in achieving a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.

The talks also addressed economic matters, as both Beijing and the European Union navigate turbulent trade relations, exacerbated by tariffs imposed by the United States. Barrot reiterated France’s stance against trade wars, advocating for open dialogue, particularly concerning the recent tariffs on EU brandy, which both sides hope to resolve swiftly.

Despite claiming neutrality in the Ukraine conflict, China maintains a strong political and economic alliance with Russia, drawing criticism from NATO members who accuse Beijing of enabling the war by its silence. Acknowledging the divergences between Paris and Beijing, Barrot stated, “Our two countries must therefore work together to foster dialogue,” indicating that collaboration is vital in navigating complex international challenges.

Both ministers underscored a shifting global landscape, with Wang highlighting the increasing chaos in international relations. He insisted on the importance of multilateralism, calling for collaborative efforts to mitigate global unrest and foster development.

Barrot’s day commenced with a visit to the Beijing Language and Culture University, where he encouraged students to embrace the French language, linking cultural ties to political unity. “A powerful Franco-Chinese partnership is essential for geopolitical stability and a prosperous future,” he proclaimed.

China views this visit as an opportunity to enhance cooperation during a time marked by global unrest, intending to resist unilateralism and foster collaborative governance. After the meeting with Wang, Barrot met with Premier Li Qiang at the Great Hall of the People, where the need for cooperative action in response to growing instability was emphasized.

Looking to further bilateral economic ties, Barrot is set to visit Shanghai to inaugurate a hydrogen production facility established by Air Liquide and participate in a business forum designed to deepen Franco-Chinese economic engagement.

Barrot's diplomatic mission to China is part of a broader tour of Asia that includes stops in Indonesia and Singapore, underlining France's commitment to strengthening ties across the region and promoting stability in an increasingly volatile world. The outcome of these discussions could have significant implications for the future of the Ukraine conflict and international diplomacy as a whole.