Cultural affinities between France and China

By David Gosset

As France and China commemorate the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, it is pertinent to delve into the nuances of this relationship. At first glance, the connection between these two nations, positioned at opposite ends of the Eurasian continent, might seem solely driven by political, economic, and geopolitical considerations. However, a closer observation reveals that their bond is deeply rooted in what can be called a shared reverence for culture. Cultural affinities between France and China underpin their approach to global issues, emphasizing multilateralism and the need for increased intellectual, artistic, and scientific collaboration.

The cultural connection between France and China is profound. During the reign of Louis XIV (1638-1715) and Emperor Kangxi (1654-1722) in the Qing Dynasty, cultural exchanges between their respective countries were fairly frequent. In fact, the French monarch even penned a correspondence to the Chinese ruler.

Both countries boast rich, ancient cultures, and place a high premium on preserving their linguistic and cultural heritages. France, known for its influence in arts, literature and philosophy, has long championed the French language – la Francophonie – and its cultural footprint. Similarly, China, with its millennia-old history, places equal importance on maintaining its cultural identity, as seen in its promotion of Mandarin and the renewal of its rich artistic traditions. This common respect for culture and language is a cornerstone of their relationship.

Such cultural affinity translates into a comfort in navigating a multipolar world. Both France and China advocate for a global order that is not dominated by a single power but by multiple centers of influence. This is reflective of their own long histories, where both nations have experienced the ebbs and flows of power. In the current geopolitical situation, their push for a multipolar world aligns with their desire to maintain a certain level of cultural integrity in the face of globalization.

Additionally, the alignment of France and China towards a multilateral approach is noteworthy. The two countries have been steadfast in their backing of multilateral organizations and structures, like the United Nations, the G20 and UNESCO, acknowledging these as vital for addressing worldwide issues. Their favoring of multilateral strategies over unilateral approaches reflects not only a political viewpoint but also stems from their cultural values that emphasize balance and cooperation.

In an era of swift worldwide transformations, the interaction between humanity and the natural world has emerged as an urgent issue. Both France and China have demonstrated dedication to ecological sustainability in the age of the Anthropocene. France has taken a forefront role in international climate discussions, highlighted by its spearheading of the Paris Agreement in 2015. Concurrently, China has achieved notable progress in developing renewable energy sources and curtailing carbon emissions. It is plausible to suggest that their respective cultural viewpoints have influenced their positions on the environment.

In the realm of technology, both countries face the challenge of preserving human dignity amidst unprecedented technological disruptions. France's quest for humanism and China's focus on societal harmony offer unique perspectives in navigating the ethical dimensions of new technologies. The dialogue between French and Chinese thinkers, artists, and scientists in this field is crucial. Such exchanges can foster a deeper understanding of how technology can be harnessed responsibly, ensuring it serves humanity rather than undermines it.

Concrete steps to boost people-to-people exchanges are vital in strengthening China-France relations. Increased tourism and student exchanges are practical ways to enhance mutual understanding. Encouraging more French people to visit China and vice versa can dispel stereotypes and build a genuine appreciation of each other's cultures. Similarly, educational exchanges can play a pivotal role.

When students study abroad, they become ambassadors of their culture and gain a nuanced understanding of their host country. Such experiences are invaluable in fostering a generation that appreciates and respects different cultures. In enhancing interpersonal connections, both societies must embrace a spirit of innovation. The China-Europe-America Museums Cooperation Initiative demonstrates this, highlighting how museums can act as catalysts for fostering mutual understanding and creating novel forms of collaboration.

The 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and China offers a moment to reflect on a relationship that is anchored in a deep cultural affinity. As France and China continue to engage with each other, their unique cultural perspectives and collaborative efforts can serve as a reference for international relations in the 21st century.

David Gosset is the founder of the China-Europe-America Global Initiative. He is the editor of China and the World in three volumes, and the creator of the Inspiring Series, a collection of books that aims to introduce China to the world.