Interview: 60 years of ties to grow friendship

"The anniversary will strengthen our bonds in our shared history," said Eric Alauzet in a recent interview with Xinhua News Agency, referring to the 60th anniversary of the establishment of Sino-French diplomatic relations.

As president of the France-China Friendship Group of the French National Assembly, and as a practitioner of acupuncture, his personal experiences reflect the history of mutual understanding and cooperation between France and China.

His passion for Chinese culture began with traditional Chinese medicine, particularly acupuncture. At the end of his medical studies in Paris, his university started offering a course called "alternative medicine" that included acupuncture.

"I immediately had a very strong interest in acupuncture. Why? Because I had this sensitivity to consider health from a holistic point of view, meaning our health should not only take into account psychological and physical dimensions, but also the influence of the environment," he said.

He highlighted that unlike the rigid duality of the West, Chinese philosophy sees an interplay and transformation between yin and yang, creating a harmonious balance through their dynamic relationship.

After 35 years of study and passion for Chinese culture, Alauzet visited China in April 2023 for the first time, accompanying French President Emmanuel Macron during his state visit.

Six months later, he returned to China as the president of the France-China Friendship Group of the French National Assembly. The group focuses on parliamentary diplomacy, distinct from official trips, aiming to enhance mutual understanding and build on dialogues between presidents and ministers.

"We do not engage in formal commitments. Instead, our discussions aim to foster better understanding and to potentially build upon the dialogues initiated between our presidents and ministers," he said.

For Alauzet, this year holds significance for both France and China. "Sixty is an incredibly important milestone in China — it marks the conclusion of one cycle and the commencement of a new era," he said.

He said former French president Charles de Gaulle was a visionary who not only foresaw China's awakening and progress, but also anticipated China's role on the global stage. "Today, China is a heavyweight," he said.

France, for its part as a heavyweight in Europe, can extend its global influence through collaboration with China, Alauzet noted. In a multipolar world, the dominance of a singular Western model is unlikely, he said.

He highlighted that 60 years of ties are an achievement, and the shared festivities offer an opportunity to forge stronger connections. "It enables us to meet more, fostering new friendships," he said.

"I'm optimistic about our success, as it will bolster culture and human relations — the foundation of all relationships, including diplomatic and strategic ones," he added.