Xi warmly welcomed Macron’s visit to Guangzhou, expressing great pleasure to meet him again. The two leaders strolled through the Pine Garden close to Baiyun Mountain, chatting and stopping at times to enjoy the unique scenery of the southern Chinese garden. They had tea by the water, enjoying the view and discussing the past and present. Xi and Macron listened to the Guqin melody “High Mountain and Flowing Water” at Baiyun Hall. Xi then invited Macron to dinner.
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Xi said that to understand today’s China, one must begin by understanding its history. Guangzhou is the cradle of China’s democratic revolution and the vanguard of China’s reform and opening-up. Now Guangzhou is actively promoting the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, continuing to play its role as a locomotive for high-quality development.
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On the Ukraine crisis, Xi noted that its cause is complex and a prolonged crisis serves no one’s interests. He said a ceasefire as soon as possible would serve the interests of all parties concerned, and a political settlement is the only correct solution.
China will never handle the Ukraine issue out of selfish interests, but always stands for fairness and justice. All relevant parties should shoulder their responsibilities and make joint efforts to create conditions for a political settlement, Xi said.
China welcomes France’s concrete proposal for a political solution to the crisis, and stands ready to support it and play a constructive role, Xi added.
Macron said France also believes that a political settlement of the Ukraine crisis needs to take into account legitimate concerns of all parties. France attaches great importance to China’s international influence and is willing to work closely with China to facilitate an early political settlement of the crisis.
Xi said the in-depth and high-quality exchanges he had with Macron in Beijing and Guangzhou over the two days have enhanced mutual understanding and mutual trust, and set the course for future cooperation between the two sides at the bilateral and international levels.
Xi said he is glad that they have the same or similar views on China-France relations, China-EU relations and many international and regional issues, which demonstrates the high level and strategic nature of China-France relations. He said he would like to maintain close strategic communication with Macron and elevate the bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership to a new height.
Macron thanked Xi for his hospitality and elaborate arrangements, and said that in addition to the friendly, in-depth exchanges between the two leaders, he is able to appreciate China’s long history and splendid culture, and has a better understanding of the concepts of modern Chinese governance.
Macron said the visit was successful and rewarding, which will boost bilateral relations toward greater development. He said he is willing to maintain close strategic communication with Xi and welcomed the Chinese president to visit France next year.
