Chinese President Xi Jinping and French President Emmanuel Macron fostered deep bilateral engagement during a relaxed, yet substantively rich, meeting on Friday, Dec. 5, 2025, in Dujiangyan, situated in Chengdu, the capital of southwest China’s Sichuan Province. The informal summit, which included their wives, Peng Liyuan and Brigitte Macron, aimed to leverage the deep historical and cultural ties between the nations to strengthen their comprehensive strategic partnership and enhance coordination on pressing global challenges, including stability in Ukraine and Palestine and climate governance.
The presidential couples were warmly received in Sichuan, known as the “Land of Abundance.” The location itself set the tone for the discussions. The leaders exchanged greetings along Yangong Path and shared tea while conversing at Huaigu Pavilion, overlooking the ancient, still-operational Dujiangyan irrigation system.
Drawing Wisdom from Ancient Engineering
President Xi used the historic setting to emphasize the unique spirit of the Chinese civilization. He highlighted the 2,200-year-old irrigation system as a testament to the Chinese nation’s resourcefulness, perseverance, and commitment to achieving harmony between humanity and nature.
“Every time I come to Dujiangyan, I can deeply feel the greatness of our ancestors in adapting to local conditions… and harnessing water resources for the benefit of the people,” Xi stated, adding that he draws “wisdom for state governance” from its successful engineering and seamless longevity.
In response, President Macron praised the Dujiangyan system as an “impressive testament” to the industry and wisdom of the Chinese people, recognizing the parallel between the long and rich histories of both France and China. He noted that through strengthened cooperation, both nations could pursue shared development and prosperity.
The discussion quickly moved to the importance of cultural confidence and historical continuity. President Xi stressed that national rejuvenation hinges not only on material wealth but also on cultural-ethical advancement. He described Chinese civilization as the only great civilization globally with an “uninterrupted and continuously developed” state form, characterized by continuity, innovation, unity, inclusiveness, and peace.
Civilizational Dialogue Amid Global Turmoil
Both leaders positioned their countries as unique representatives of Eastern and Western civilizations, sharing a core spirit of independence rooted in their respective profound cultural heritages. Xi stated that the establishment of China-France diplomatic relations was a convergence of two splendid civilizations, not merely a political handshake.
Against the backdrop of an uncertain global landscape marked by turmoil, the presidents agreed that as two major powers with long histories, China and France are uniquely positioned to contribute to world peace, stability, and human progress through enhanced dialogue.
Macron echoed this sentiment, confirming France’s commitment to strengthening communication and coordination with Beijing. He emphasized the importance of engaging in dialogue and consultation to address conflicts and safeguard global stability.
The meeting culminated in concrete diplomatic action. China and France issued several joint statements, focusing on key areas: strengthening global governance, continuous promotion of cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, joint responses to climate and environmental challenges, and cooperative efforts in agriculture and food security. Crucially, they also issued joint positions regarding the fluid situations in Ukraine and Palestine, underscoring their commitment to diplomatic resolution.
The two heads of state agreed to maintain close communication to ensure the continuous advancement of the China-France comprehensive strategic partnership, signaling an ongoing commitment to collaboration at the highest level.