France and China are testing an alternative to zero-sum diplomacy

French President Emmanuel Macron’s three-day visit to China last week signals a recalibration in how China and Europe engage at a moment when technological competition, trade disputes, climate imperatives and geopolitical fragmentation threaten global stability.

The trip fostered economic collaboration between the two countries and deliberately leaned on cultural diplomacy to create deeper ties. Instead of voicing concerns or managing differences, Beijing and Paris are testing a new model of sustainable geopolitical partnership grounded in long-term development, technological collaboration, environmental governance and shared values.

During their meeting, the two leaders toured the Dujiangyan irrigation system, a Chinese engineering feat dating to the 3rd century BC that still nourishes Sichuan province, crystallising this message. The site embodies a philosophy of balancing societal growth with environmental stewardship, mirroring the broader shift in Sino-French relations: prioritising sustainable development over zero-sum competition as the guiding principle of future cooperation.

Macron arrived with a high-profile business delegation featuring 35 senior executives from companies such as Airbus, EDF and Danone, along with representatives from family-owned luxury and agricultural enterprises. For decades, French firms have benefited from China’s broad labour and consumer base.

But as China transforms from a manufacturing powerhouse into an innovation hub, especially in green energy, electric vehicles, batteries and solar technologies, French companies seek not only access to the Chinese market but also Chinese investment and technological expertise.

South China Morning Post