China joined a multilateral economic dialogue hosted by France shortly before the G7 Summit and reaffirmed its support for free trade and international cooperation. The discussions took place amid growing concerns in Western economies over China’s expanding industrial exports. The meeting highlighted ongoing efforts by both China and Europe to preserve economic engagement despite increasing trade frictions. Outcomes from the G7 Summit and future EU deliberations could influence the trajectory of China-West economic relations.
China participated in a video conference hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron ahead of the G7 Summit, with Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing representing Beijing. During the meeting, China emphasized the importance of maintaining free trade, strengthening economic cooperation, and supporting inclusive global growth.
Zhang stated that China would continue pursuing high-level economic opening-up policies and remains willing to share development opportunities with other countries. Macron warned that a lack of coordination among major economies in addressing global economic imbalances could increase financial and economic instability. The discussion took place under the “Global Convergence for Growth” initiative and included exchanges on key challenges facing the global economy.
The meeting occurred as Chinese exports, particularly in electric vehicles, lithium batteries, and advanced technologies, remain a major topic of discussion among G7 members and European policymakers. China’s participation may help maintain channels for economic dialogue and reduce trade tensions ahead of upcoming decisions by the G7 and the European Union on trade and industrial policy.