China Wants More Investment from French Firms, Xi Tells Macron

China's President Xi Jinping (L) arrives for the APEC Economic Leaders' Retreat, during the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference at the Moscone West Convention Center in San Francisco, California, USA, 17 November 2023. (EPA)
China's President Xi Jinping (L) arrives for the APEC Economic Leaders' Retreat, during the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference at the Moscone West Convention Center in San Francisco, California, USA, 17 November 2023. (EPA)
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China Wants More Investment from French Firms, Xi Tells Macron

China's President Xi Jinping (L) arrives for the APEC Economic Leaders' Retreat, during the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference at the Moscone West Convention Center in San Francisco, California, USA, 17 November 2023. (EPA)
China's President Xi Jinping (L) arrives for the APEC Economic Leaders' Retreat, during the annual Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation conference at the Moscone West Convention Center in San Francisco, California, USA, 17 November 2023. (EPA)

China wants more French companies to invest in the country and hopes France will provide a fair business environment for Chinese firms, President Xi Jinping said on Monday, while France also called for fair rules for foreign companies in China.

Xi made the comments in a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron, Chinese state television reported, seeking to strengthen ties with its European trading partner after Macron visited China in April.

China faces an electric vehicle subsidy investigation by the European Union and a looming probe into its steelmakers. Meanwhile, several European countries have complained about China's opaque laws and rules regarding foreign companies in the country.

"China is willing to maintain high-level exchanges with the French side," Xi said, adding that he welcomed more French products entering the Chinese market.

Macron's office said the opening of the Chinese market should go hand-in-hand with fair competition rules for foreign companies.

Asked whether France had made progress to counter Chinese plans to force French cosmetics companies to share manufacturing secrets with Chinese parties, a French presidential adviser said it was a major issue that Macron had raised himself.

"It's an important point for us, considering what's at stake for French companies," the adviser said.

Macron's office also said China had joined a French initiative called "Buildings Breakthrough" that sets a zero carbon emissions goal for the building sector for 2030.

Xi also said China was willing to strengthen cooperation with France at the United Nations and other multilateral institutions. China took over the presidency of the UN Security Council (UNSC) this month.

The leader of the world's second-largest economy also called on France to play a constructive role in promoting the positive development of China-EU relations, as ties have been strained over issues ranging from the EU's push to reduce supply chain reliance on China to the war in Ukraine.

"China and the European Union should remain partners for mutually beneficial cooperation," Xi said in the call.

The two leaders also exchanged views on the conflict in Gaza, and agreed that it was imperative to avoid a further deterioration of the situation, in particular an even more serious humanitarian crisis, state television reported.

The French presidential adviser said China, as a member of the UN Security Council, should contribute more to UNRWA, the UN Palestinian refugee agency than the $1 million it currently gives every year.

"We encourage the Chinese authorities to do much more," the adviser said.



Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
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Saudi's flynas Strikes Deal for Additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s

Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)
Saudi's flynas strikes deal for additional Airbus A320neos, 15 A330s (flynas)

flynas, Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carrier, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 75 A320neo family aircraft and 15 A330-900. This strategic agreement will expand the airline's capacity, range and enhance its overall fleet capabilities.
Signed during Farnborough International Airshow in the presence of President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia, Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, Chairman of the Board of NAS Holding Ayed Al Jeaid, flynas Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director Bandar Almohanna, and Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer, Airbus said on its website.
The new aircraft will join the carrier’s all Airbus fleet serving international, domestic and regional routes. The new A330-900 aircraft will boast a two-class configuration, accommodating up to 400 passengers.
"We are excited to further strengthen our long-standing partnership with Airbus," said Bander Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas. "The A320neo Family provides exceptional operational performance and environmental benefits, allowing us to offer unique, low-cost travel experiences. Additionally, the A330neowill enhance our long-haul capabilities with its advanced technology and efficiency while supporting our growth plans and Saudi Arabia’s pilgrim program."
Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer said, "We are delighted to expand our partnership with flynas through this significant milestone for both A320neo and A330-900 aircraft. The A330neo will allow flynas to further grow into widebody markets by building on the A320, benefiting from Airbus’ unique commonality. Both aircraft types offer flynas the perfect versatility and economics to expand into new markets while offering their passengers the latest cabin experience and comfort. We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with flynas as they embark on this exciting new chapter."
The addition of the A330-900 aircraft will support flynas' ambitious growth plans. The airline anticipates significant operational efficiency gains by combining the new widebody aircraft with its existing A320neo fleet. The A330-900 offers increased capacity and range at unrivaled seat costs, ensuring flynas can compete effectively in the growing regional market, a key focus area for the airline.
The A330neo delivers unbeatable operating economics, powered by the latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, featuring new wings and a range of aerodynamic innovations resulting in a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to previous generation competitor aircraft. The A330neo is capable of flying 8,150 nm / 15,094 km non-stop, providing ultimate comfort with more passenger space, a new lighting system, latest in-flight entertainment systems and full connectivity throughout the cabin.
As with all Airbus aircraft, the A330 family is already able to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The manufacturer is targeting to have its aircraft up to 100% SAF capable by 2030.