They demonstrated in Paris at a time when Chinese President Xi Jinping is visiting France.

During his visit to France, Xi Jinping told his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron that their nations should uphold independence and jointly prevent a "new Cold War" or bloc confrontation.

The two sides should stay committed to the spirit that guided the establishment of their diplomatic ties, namely, independence, mutual understanding, long-term vision and mutual benefit, and enrich it with new features of the new era, Xi was quoted as saying by Xinhua.

China is willing to deepen cooperation with France in climate change, biodiversity and other fields, support France in hosting a successful UN Ocean Conference, and encourage the pairing of relevant national parks and nature reserves of the two countries, Xi said.

Xi’s visit on May 6-7, 2024 is marking the 60 years of diplomatic relations between France and the People’s Republic of China.

Human Rights Watch reacts to Xi's visit to France

French President Emmanuel Macron should lay out consequences for the Chinese government’s crimes against humanity and deepening repression during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit to Paris, Human Rights Watch said on May 3.

“President Macron should make it clear to Xi Jinping that Beijing’s crimes against humanity come with consequences for China’s relations with France,” said Maya Wang, acting China director at Human Rights Watch. “France’s silence and inaction on human rights would only embolden the Chinese government’s sense of impunity for its abuses, further fueling repression at home and abroad.”