In a recent phone conversation, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the importance of the Taiwan question and reiterated the one-China policy during talks with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. The exchange highlighted both nations’ commitment to strengthening strategic mutual trust and respecting each other’s core interests.
Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, stressed that the Taiwan question is an internal affair of China concerning national sovereignty and territorial integrity. He underscored that this issue is fundamentally different from international matters like the Ukraine crisis.
“China attaches great importance to France’s commitment to the one-China policy,” Wang Yi stated, expressing confidence that France will uphold this commitment in practice. He further voiced China’s hope that France will oppose NATO’s involvement in Asia-Pacific affairs, urging both countries to promote multilateralism and safeguard free trade while opposing unilateral actions.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot echoed the sentiment, affirming that France views China as a friend and partner. “France firmly adheres to the one-China policy and looks forward to maintaining high-level exchanges and close strategic communication with China,” Barrot said.
Both ministers highlighted the significance of enhancing people-to-people, cultural, and educational exchanges to promote the development of the China-France comprehensive strategic partnership and China-European Union relations. Wang Yi welcomed senior French representatives to the upcoming World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai in 2025.
Barrot also extended an invitation to Chinese Vice President Han Zheng to attend the United Nations Ocean Conference in France, noting that strengthening bilateral ties is increasingly important amid global uncertainties. He emphasized France’s opposition to trade wars and commitment to resolving economic and trade frictions through consultation.
The two sides also exchanged views on international issues, including Ukraine, Palestine and Israel, and Iran’s nuclear program, agreeing on the need for continued dialogue and cooperation.
