Trade issues topped the agenda, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warning that “for trade to be fair, access to each other's markets must also be reciprocal.”
Chinese President Xi Jinping has said he is ready to work with France to “stop war” worldwide during the upcoming Paris Olympics.
At a press conference in Paris, Xi said China was playing an “active role in achieving peace” in the Ukraine war.
“Today's world is not very peaceful. As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and a responsible power, China will work with France to use the Paris Olympics as an opportunity to advocate for a global ceasefire and cessation of war. “We are ready to do the Olympics,” Xi said.
These comments echoed similar remarks by French President Emmanuel Macron, who called for an “Olympic truce in all theaters.”
trade dispute
Trade issues were at the top of the agenda at the two leaders' meeting, with President Macron accusing China of increasing protection and subsidies.
A strong advocate of Europe's economic sovereignty, he raised French concerns about China's anti-dumping probe into cognac and other European brandies, as well as tensions over areas such as French cosmetics.
On Monday, President Xi reiterated his “openness” on possible provisional measures against French cognac, and China's commitment to “refrain from selling any arms or aid to Moscow and strictly control military exports.” welcomed the promise.
Although China maintains its neutrality in the Ukraine conflict, President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that their governments had “boundless friendship” before Russian troops invaded Ukraine.
U.S. intelligence officials also said China supplies Russia with parts and other materials needed to maintain its defense industry.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who was also in Paris, vowed to stop China's heavily subsidized manufacturing and unfair trade practices from suffocating Europe's homegrown industries. The EU executive branch issued a stern warning to Mr. Xi that it would take all possible measures to achieve this goal.
This is the clearest sign yet that blockchain is preparing for a potential trade war with China.
“For trade to be fair, access to each other's markets must also be reciprocal,” von der Leyen told reporters.