Xi’s visit to France, Serbia, and Hungary marks China’s attempt to play a larger role in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Despite claiming neutrality, China’s close ties with Russia have raised concerns about its support for Moscow’s actions in Ukraine. Xi’s visit is seen as an opportunity to strengthen China’s relationships with these European countries and inject new momentum into global peace and development. The visits will be closely watched by the United States, as China’s stance on key foreign policy issues could impact relations between the two countries.
In France, President Macron’s comments last year about not blindly following the U.S. in international crises have raised concerns in Washington. Macron’s stance on China-Taiwan relations and his independence from U.S. foreign policy decisions could indicate a shift in France’s alignment with Western allies. China’s strong relations with Serbia, including military deliveries, and Hungary’s delay in supporting NATO expansion have further complicated the dynamics between Western countries and Beijing. Hungary’s close ties with Russia and its strained relationship with Sweden over NATO entry highlight the complexities of balancing alliances in the region.
Xi’s visits come after a meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, where the importance of managing differences between the U.S. and China was emphasized. The meeting aimed to address bilateral, regional, and global issues that have strained relations between the two superpowers. Meanwhile, Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu praised military cooperation with China as tensions rise globally due to geopolitical conflicts and Western actions. The collaboration between Russia and China is seen as a strategic response to emerging tensions and conflicts in various regions.
As Xi prepares for his first visit to Europe in five years, the world is watching closely to see how China will navigate the complex geopolitics of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. China’s neutrality in the conflict has been questioned due to its close ties with Russia and reluctance to condemn Moscow’s actions. The visits to France, Serbia, and Hungary will provide an opportunity for China to strengthen ties with these countries and potentially influence their stance on global issues. The outcome of Xi’s visit could have far-reaching implications for global peace and security, as China seeks to expand its role on the world stage.
