French President Macron Addresses Taiwan and Tibet Issues in Recent Statements

During a trip to Japan earlier this month, Macron and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi issued a joint statement that emphasized the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and urged a peaceful resolution of cross-strait issues through constructive dialogue.

an interview with Japanese public broadcaster NHK on April 1, Macron stated that France does not want to be under the hegemony of China or the United States, while adding that Paris should create a mutually beneficial situation with Beijing. Two days later, at Yonsei University in Seoul, Macron referred to Beijing and Washington, stating that the objective is not to be the vassals of two hegemonic powers.

also spoke briefly with Genkhang Rigzin Choedon, the Dalai Lama’s representative to the EU, at a cultural event in Paris in late March. According to a social media post by Genkhang, Macron expressed high esteem for the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama.