In a telephone discussion on Nov. 20, Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron discussing the Gaza crisis, and noting that 2024, as the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, offers an opportunity to expand them. Regarding the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, both agreed that it is imperative to avoid further deterioration, especially a more serious humanitarian crisis, and that the two-state solution is fundamental to solving the cycle of their conflicts.
“As the year 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations, both sides should pass the baton of history, stick to the original intention in establishing the diplomatic relations, carry forward the traditional friendship and push the China-France relations to a new level,” Xi said. He also remarked that since Macron’s visit last April, all bilateral exchanges and cooperation have resumed. While applauding France’s active participation in the Third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation over Oct. 17-18 and the China International Import Expo in Shanghai on Nov. 5-10, Xi said China is ready to strengthen cooperation with France in the United Nations and other multilateral institutions.
