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Emmanuel Macron complied with Xi Jinping's wish and announced that Europe would not be a "follower" of either the US or China on Taiwan, which was celebrated by the state media. Simultaneously, the People's Liberation Army launched a fierce drill: It rehearsed encircling Taiwan and engaging targets on the island.
By Finn Mayer-Kuckuk
EU Commission President von der Leyen and French President Macron had hoped to pit President Xi Jinping against Putin with their visit to China. It was a bold strategy: Macron flattered Xi, the EU Commission President was critical. Journalist and geopolitical expert Alexander Goerlach considers the strategy a failure.
By Felix Lee
One visit, two styles: Macron and Xi woo each other. Von der Leyen seems less charming in comparison, but instead comes across as open and direct. The Head of the European Commission maintains the critical tone of her keynote speech during the visit to Beijing. However, Xi does not begrudge the two Europeans any public successes regarding discussions on Ukraine.
By Amelie Richter
The Chinese leadership and state media are keeping a conspicuous verbal low profile ahead of the talks between Head of State Xi and his European visitors Macron and von der Leyen. They are downright eager to show understanding for the Europeans – surprising after the EU Commission Chief's critical keynote speech. Commentators and social media, meanwhile, are ranting about the guests.
By Jörn Petring
