French President Emmanuel Macron sought to build closer diplomatic ties with Chinese President Xi Jinping by hosting him at a 7,000-foot pass in the Pyrenees. Despite encountering fog and snow, Macron welcomed Xi with a personal touch, offering gifts and engaging in friendly conversation. Macron’s decision to address Xi in an informal manner and present him with a signed Tour de France jersey highlighted his efforts to connect with the Chinese leader on a personal level.
The location of the meeting, the Col du Tourmalet, held significance for Macron, as it was a place that he used to visit regularly with his grandmother. The intimate lunch that followed, featuring local delicacies including cured ham and fine wines, created a relaxed and festive atmosphere. Macron aimed to use the lunch as an opportunity to engage in open and honest conversation with Xi, although little information about the discussions emerged publicly.
Despite Macron’s efforts to cultivate a close relationship with Xi, particularly in challenging global issues such as ending the war in Ukraine, it remained unclear what concrete outcomes could be achieved through their discussions. French officials highlighted a joint statement on the Middle East as a sign of the bond between Macron and Xi, but others questioned the extent to which personal charm and seduction could influence complex international relations.
The issue of human rights in China, specifically the treatment of Uighurs in Xinjiang, was reportedly raised by Macron during the meetings. However, the French president did not explicitly use the term genocide in reference to the situation. The delicate nature of discussing such sensitive topics in diplomacy was evident in the careful selection of wine to accompany the meal, which aimed to subtly acknowledge Chinese culture and history.
Macron’s approach to diplomacy, characterized by personal engagement and charm, contrasts with the more traditional and formal diplomatic practices. While his attempts to forge a strong relationship with Xi have been praised by some, others question whether this personal touch can truly influence complex international issues. As Macron continues to navigate global challenges and build partnerships, the effectiveness of his diplomatic style remains a topic of debate among experts in international relations.
Overall, Macron’s efforts to strengthen ties with China through personal diplomacy and gestures of friendship demonstrate his commitment to engaging with world leaders on a personal level. The intimate lunch at the Col du Tourmalet served as a symbolic representation of his approach to diplomacy, blending personal history with broader diplomatic goals. While the outcomes of his meetings with Xi are yet to be fully realized, Macron’s focus on building relationships and promoting dialogue remains central to his foreign policy approach.
