Chinese President Xi Jinping’s recent visit to three carefully chosen European countries has sparked significant interest and speculation about the implications of his diplomatic engagements. The visit, spanning from May 5-10, marked President Xi’s first European visit in five years, highlighting the strategic importance of the chosen destinations: France, Serbia, and Hungary.
In France, President Xi engaged in bilateral discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen, resulting in the signing of 18 agreements across various sectors. The visit underscored the deepening economic ties between China and France, with trade reaching $78.9 billion and bilateral investment exceeding $26 billion.
In Serbia, President Xi solidified ties by signing 29 agreements, making Serbia the first European nation to join China’s Global Community of Shared Future initiative. The visit coincided with the 25th anniversary of the NATO bombing of the Chinese embassy in Belgrade, highlighting the enduring bond between China and Serbia.
In Hungary, President Xi signed 18 agreements, emphasizing a “golden voyage” in bilateral relations. The construction of a high-speed railway line between Budapest and Belgrade symbolizes the deepening economic partnership between China and Hungary.
Overall, President Xi’s visit to these European countries underscores the evolving dynamics of China’s relationship with Europe, shaped by a blend of economic interests, diplomatic considerations, and geopolitical strategies. The visit holds far-reaching implications for global geopolitics and the future of China’s relations with Western countries.