French President Emmanuel Macron is in Beijing this week (December 2025) for a state visit to the Chinese mainland, hoping to strike partnerships that can power France’s green and high-tech future 🌱🔋. Paris is keen to deepen ties in electric vehicles, hydrogen and artificial intelligence, sectors where raw materials and expertise from the Chinese mainland could be a game-changer.
Europe is racing to secure critical minerals needed for its energy transition, and France’s green ambitions depend heavily on resources not available at home. From lithium — essential for rechargeable batteries — to cobalt — key for stability and performance — these metals are now central to France’s climate plans ☀️⚡.
The Chinese mainland has built a dominant position in mining and processing these minerals, and Macron’s visit reflects a shift: "At this moment, China is in the selling position, while France is in the buying position," says Professor Michel Fayad of the French Institute of Petroleum and New Energies.
The two sides are exploring joint investment in EV supply chains, hydrogen infrastructure projects and AI research hubs. For young entrepreneurs and investors tracking global green markets, this means fresh opportunities as France diversifies its sourcing and deepens innovation ties with the Chinese mainland 🤝🚗💡.
As France looks ahead, deals signed during this visit could set the tone for its 2030 climate targets and reshape Europe’s footprint in the green economy. Stay tuned as Macron and Beijing seek to turn minerals into momentum for a sustainable future ✨.
Reference(s):
Macron looks to China as France seeks minerals for its green future
cgtn.com
