The Day Xi and Macron Emphasized Friendship in Chengdu

Chinese state media continued its extensive coverage of French President Emmanuel Macron's visit, primarily focusing on his informal meeting with President Xi Jinping in Chengdu. Early headlines from state-backed outlets emphasized friendly exchanges and deepening relations, often highlighting their discussions on state governance and international cooperation, particularly concerning water management as a metaphor for governance. Separately, the South China Morning Post reported on official Chinese media calls to end name-and-shame campaigns against cadres. Later in the day, the focus remained on the Sino-French friendship, with reports about a joint anti-missile exercise between China and Russia also emerging. Concurrently, Hong Kong Free Press continued to report on the aftermath of the Tai Po fire and the ongoing Legislative Council elections, while VOA Chinese noted US House bills aimed at curbing CCP influence in American schools.