China – Conversation between the Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs and her counterpart (25 May 2022)

Mme Catherine Colonna, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, spoke on the telephone today to the Foreign Minister of China, Mr Wang Yi.

Building on the French President’s recent discussions with President Xi, the two ministers emphasized the importance of the bilateral relationship. The Minister stressed her determination to implement the Franco-Chinese partnership by means of a high-quality, close and demanding dialogue on all issues.

The Minister reiterated France’s determination to support Ukraine in the face of the war of aggression Russia has been waging for the past three months, in violation of the basic principles of international law. The two ministers agreed it was urgent for Russia to return to compliance with international law and to a negotiated solution to the conflict. They reaffirmed their commitment to respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. They expressed their support for the international community’s efforts in terms of humanitarian aid to Ukraine and of addressing the consequences of the Russian aggression at every level.

In the context of the publication of new documents referring to very serious human rights violations in Xinjiang and of the visit being paid by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, the Minister called for full transparency on the situation and for the High Commissioner to be ensured genuine, unfettered access, including to allow her to talk to members of civil society and visit places of her choice, including, for example, detention facilities. For his part, Mr Wang welcomed the visit by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
As regards the French community in China, the Minister stressed the need in particular to authorize access to our Consulate General in Shanghai, especially for members of the public who have to complete administrative formalities before returning to France. She also talked about the frequency of air links with China.

Q: What is your reaction to the new revelations regarding the repression of the Uyghur Muslim minority? In light of these revelations, do you believe that Michelle Bachelet’s visit to Xinjiang will be useful?

A: Please refer to the statement that I gave today.