China and France reaffirm commitments to global peace, stability, and development

China and France reaffirmed their commitments to contributing to global peace, stability, and development amid a complex international landscape when Foreign Minister Wang Yi and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot held talks in Paris on Friday.

Addressing the challenges posed by unilateralism and bullying that impact the international order, Wang emphasized that China and France, as permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and independent major countries, should champion multilateralism and uphold free trade rules.

He highlighted the recent resolution of the brandy trade issue between China and the European Union through friendly consultations, demonstrating their ability to manage disputes constructively.

Wang expressed hope that France, as a core EU member, a proponent of free trade, and a leader in green transformation, could play a constructive role in promoting the EU to adopt a similar approach in resolving differences.

Wang also expressed the belief that France would continue to adhere to the one-China principle, safeguarding the political foundation of bilateral relations.

He called for both sides to work together to expand cooperation, deepening ties in traditional sectors such as nuclear energy, aviation, and aerospace, while exploring new areas like artificial intelligence, green energy, biotechnology, and the silver economy.

China supports its capable enterprises investing in France, Wang said and voiced the hope that France would provide a fair, transparent, non-discriminatory, and predictable business environment for Chinese companies.

Barrot said France and China both adhere to multilateralism and France looks forward to strengthening communication and cooperation with China to jointly respond to global challenges.

He also reaffirmed French government's unwavering commitment to the one-China policy.

France attaches great importance to the EU-China partnership and looks forward to deepening cooperation with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the EU and China, he added.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis and the Iranian nuclear issue.