French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has embarked on a two-day visit to China, focusing on discussions with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and trade disputes between China and Europe. The meeting, held shortly before noon, is set to be followed by a news conference and luncheon, highlighting the importance of bilateral relations. Mr. Barrot will travel to Shanghai tomorrow to meet with local officials and business leaders, aiming to strengthen economic ties and address trade disputes between China and Europe.

France has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine in its struggle against Russian invasion, while Beijing has backed Russia diplomatically and provided an economic lifeline by buying Russian natural resources. Barrot’s visit is an opportunity to gauge China’s attitude on Ukraine ahead of a major French-hosted meeting on a possible peacekeeping force for the country. The talks come as fissures are showing between the US and Europe over support for Ukraine, with Washington increasingly seen as backing Moscow.

French President François Macron has proposed the deployment of a European armed force in Ukraine as part of an eventual peace deal. Speaking yesterday, Macron emphasized that such a force could respond to any potential Russian aggression, marking a significant step in Europe’s efforts to ensure stability in the region. Europe has long complained of unfair Chinese trade practices that it says force European companies to take on Chinese partners, share business practices and result in a major Chinese trade surpluses.