STORY: Chinese President Xi Jinping is in Europe for the first time in five years at a time of growing economic and trade tensions.
Xi was in Paris on Monday, where French President Emmanuel Macron and EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen urged him to ensure more balanced trade with Europe.
"... We have a responsibility to ensure a level playing field for all," Macron said ahead of talks during the two-day visit.
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The EU is investigating Chinese industries such as electric vehicle exports, while Beijing has started an anti-dumping probe on French cognac.
For his part, Xi says China's relationship with Europe is a foreign policy priority.
"China always views its relations with the EU from a strategic and long-term perspective," he said.
During the Monday visit, Macron and Xi also reviewed French troops at an honor guard ceremony.
Chinese state media reported that Xi, behind closed doors, said he hoped EU institutions would quote, "develop the right perception of China."
French diplomatic sources said the Chinese president appeared receptive to his counterparts' comments on trade, but it's unclear if that will lead to action.
"The world cannot absorb China's surplus production."
While speaking to reporters, von der Leyen said both sides' relationship is hurt by unequal market access and Chinese state subsidies.
"I am convinced that if the competition is fair, we in Europe will have thriving, durable economies that will support more good jobs."
Chinese media reported that Xi told the leaders - from a global perspective - he doesn't think there's a problem with overcapacity.
Still, a sticking point on the European side is that EU members - especially France and Germany - are not united in their attitude towards China.
Macron also pressed the Chinese leader to use his influence on Russia to end the war in Ukraine.
According to state media, Xi said China has been working "vigorously" to facilitate peace talks.
