Macron Visits China Amid Strained Ties Over Ukraine and Trade

French President Emmanuel Macron begins a three-day state visit to China on Wednesday. He arrives as relations between Paris and Beijing face significant pressure over two major issues: the war in Ukraine and economic imbalances. China has maintained its political and economic support for Russia throughout the conflict. Macron hopes to persuade Chinese leader Xi Jinping to use his influence with Moscow to help end the fighting. However, analysts expect little change in Beijing's position. Trade tensions also complicate the visit. China now accounts for almost 50% of France's total trade deficit. This deficit occurs when a country imports more goods from a trading partner than it exports to them. Macron is expected to seek a more balanced economic relationship. The talks will test whether the two leaders can find common ground despite these growing disputes.