Wang Yi Urges France to Oppose NATO’s Role in Asia-Pacific

(MENAFN) China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, voiced his hope that France would oppose NATO’s “interference” in the Asia-Pacific region during a phone conversation with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot.

Wang emphasized that he wanted France to "take the right position and oppose NATO's interference in Asia-Pacific affairs," as noted in a statement from Beijing’s Foreign Ministry after their talks on Friday.

During the discussion, Wang Yi also highlighted the need for both nations to work together to “uphold multilateralism, safeguard free trade, and oppose unilateral and bullying practices.”

He reaffirmed China’s appreciation for France's commitment to the one-China policy, expressing confidence that France would honor this commitment in practice.

Additionally, Wang Yi pointed out that the issue of Ukraine is “fundamentally different” from the “Taiwan question,” underscoring the distinction between the two matters.

In response, Barrot voiced France’s opposition to "trade wars and tariff wars."

He stated that France “is willing to continue to properly resolve economic and trade frictions through consultation,” signaling a preference for dialogue over conflict.

Barrot reiterated that France “always regards China as a friend and partner, firmly pursues the one-China policy, and looks forward to maintaining high-level exchanges and close strategic communication with China.”

Both officials also emphasized the importance of people-to-people and cultural exchanges as key components in strengthening their bilateral relations.

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