On March 8, Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks via videoconference with French President Macron and German Chancellor Scholz. Ding Xuexiang, Yang Jiechi, Wang Yi and He Lifen also took part in the talks from the Chinese side.

Xi Jinping noted that the growing global challenges in the modern world in light of the intertwining of changes not seen in a century and the COVID-19 pandemic require global cooperation. China and Europe always find a common language on a wide range of issues regarding peace, development and cooperation. Green, digital partnership and practical cooperation in various fields should be continuously deepened in the spirit of mutual benefit. Multilateralism must continue to be pursued in order to advance the global agenda.

Macron and Scholz congratulated the Chinese leader on the successful holding of the Winter Olympics in Beijing. It was stated that in the face of numerous challenges of our time, action alone is useless and will not come in handy. The European side highly appreciates the significant and constructive role of China in international affairs and is ready for close cooperation, in particular, in jointly countering global challenges such as climate change and public health. Europe is interested in joint efforts with the Chinese side to organize an EU-China summit, to advance French-Chinese, German-Chinese and European-Chinese relations. The parties paid special attention to the situation around Ukraine.

Macron and Scholz shared their assessment and position on the situation around Ukraine. According to them, Europe is experiencing the most severe crisis since the end of World War II. France and Germany are in favor of a negotiated settlement of the crisis in order to leave a chance for peace.

Xi Jinping stressed that the situation around Ukraine remains alarming. China deeply regrets that the fire of war has once again flared up on the European continent. China insists that the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected, the purposes and principles of the UN Charter must be respected, the legitimate security concerns of all countries must be taken seriously, and all efforts towards a peaceful settlement deserve support. It is extremely important to prevent further aggravation of the situation and its uncontrolled deterioration. China appreciates the mediation efforts of France and Germany, is ready to be in close contact and coordination with French, German and other partners from Europe, to promote the constructive role of the world community, taking into account the needs of the parties involved. As Xi Jinping stressed, Russia and Ukraine should be supported together in overcoming difficulties and continuing the negotiation process, which should bring results and peace.

The sides also exchanged views on the Iranian nuclear issue.