by David GOSSET
In early May, Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to make his first international trip of the year, choosing France as his initial stop. This decision underscores the profound mutual respect between France and China, a respect that is deeply rooted in their extensive historical and cultural legacies. These two nations share a recognition that goes beyond mere diplomatic formalities, reflecting a long-standing history of rich interactions and cultural exchanges.
This relationship may appear paradoxical at first, as Franco-Chinese cooperation thrives primarily because both nations highly value their sovereignty. Unlike many international partnerships that are often formed under external pressures, the collaboration between France and China emerges from genuine shared interests and a collective commitment to a multipolar world order. This understanding allows them to work together effectively, with both nations appreciating the importance of balancing global power dynamics.
This cooperative spirit is crucial as it enables France and China to pursue initiatives that align with their strategic objectives, fostering mutual trust and understanding. As sovereign entities, they interact on an equal footing, which enhances their diplomatic relations and contributes significantly to creating a more balanced and inclusive international order.
Today, the global landscape is riddled with challenges, from geopolitical tensions to environmental crises, making the need for Franco-Chinese synergies more evident than ever. In an era often characterized by mistrust, especially between the West and China, the enduring partnership between these two nations stands as a beacon of hope. It demonstrates that trust and cooperation are not only possible but also essential for achieving progress and prosperity.
As France and China translate their mutual affinities into concerted actions, they are forging pathways for enhanced cooperation between the EU and the world’s second-largest economy. This collaboration also serves as a signal to the U.S. that strategic partnerships with China are viable. The visionary decision in 1964 by then French leader Charles de Gaulle to establish diplomatic ties with China paved the way for future American engagements with Beijing, led by Henry Kissinger and President Richard Nixon.
The efficient synergies between France and China unlock tremendous potential, paving the way for broader opportunities not just between the West and China, but also involving the Global South. Harmonizing these relationships is crucial; failure to do so could result in significant long-term losses for all parties involved. By promoting collaboration and understanding, Franco-Chinese initiatives set a precedent for constructive global engagement. This alignment benefits not only the immediate stakeholders but also contributes to sustainable development, prosperity, and stability across various regions, ensuring a more equitable and interconnected world.
In multilateral forums like the United Nations, France and China collaborate to uphold peace and promote inclusive and sustainable development. Their partnership extends beyond traditional diplomatic arenas, covering sensitive areas such as nuclear energy and virology. Moreover, there is potential for joint ventures in emerging fields like artificial intelligence, space exploration, and green technologies. Embracing innovation and fostering a spirit of openness and cooperation can unlock new avenues for economic growth, social advancement, and scientific progress.
Diplomacy is truly an art, necessitating both creativity and courage from those engaged in it. Diplomats must navigate the complexities of contemporary crises while also anticipating and addressing future challenges. With ingenuity and foresight, they can develop innovative solutions to the pressing issues of our times, laying the groundwork for a more stable and prosperous future. For French and Chinese diplomats, this task is facilitated by drawing inspiration from the visionaries who decades ago set the stage for this fruitful collaboration.
President Xi’s forthcoming visit provides an opportunity for both countries to explore new dimensions and responsibilities within their relationship. By forging new paths of cooperation, France and China can effectively address the complex challenges of today while nurturing their longstanding bond.
Given the resources available to both nations and the nature of their relationship, discontinuing their groundbreaking collaboration would not only be a strategic error but also a moral failure, especially at a time when humanity faces existential threats like high-intensity conflicts, nuclear proliferation, and climate-related catastrophes.
As global leaders, both nations are positioned uniquely to influence positive change, leveraging their historical ties and mutual respect to address some of the most pressing issues of our age. Their continued collaboration is a testament to the power of diplomatic foresight and the pursuit of a collective good that transcends individual national interests.
As they move forward, both nations bear a significant responsibility to the international community to model how diverse global powers can coexist and prosper through mutual respect and shared goals. In this context, the ongoing partnership between France and China isn’t just beneficial—it’s a crucial pillar for fostering global stability and demonstrating the enduring value of international cooperation.
Author: David Gosset is a special commentator on current affairs for CGTN, is the founder of the China-Europe-America Global Initiative.
This article was originally published on CGTN on 30 April 2024. The article reflects the author’s own opinions and not necessarily the views of Global Connectivities.
