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Ukraine war: Send very clear messages to Russia – France tells China

The French Foreign Minister, Stephane Sejourne on Monday expressed hope that “China sends very clear messages to Russia” over the ongoing war in Ukraine.

 

Sejourne disclosed this during a press conference in Beijing after meeting his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi.

The French Foreign Minister harped on the need to negotiate a lasting peace with Ukraine.

He said: “We are convinced that there will be no lasting peace if it is not negotiated with the Ukrainians.

“There will be no security for Europeans if there is no peace in accordance with international law.

“It is an essential issue for us, which is why France is determined to maintain a close dialogue with China.”

He noted that Beijing could play a “key role” in ensuring that respect for international law is maintained.

 

Sejourne’s visit is the second to China by a French foreign minister in less than six months, following a trip by his predecessor, Catherine Colonna, in November.

Macron also visited last April, receiving a rock star welcome at a university in southern China from hundreds of screaming students and fans.

But he faced accusations of cosying up to Beijing and sparked controversy by saying Europe shouldn’t be a “follower” of the United States in the event of a conflict with China over Taiwan.

The top diplomat’s visit this week comes as part of events marking the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and China.

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