France pushes Europe's case with China for trade

French president Emmanuel Macron has secured several trade deals with China as he looks to increase Europe's economic power on the global stage.

French President Emmanuel Macron (2nd L) walks with Chinese President Xi Jinping as they are greeted by children during a welcome ceremony. Source: AAP

Both countries have hailed the French president's first state visit to China as the beginning of a historic partnership.

The French and Chinese presidents have signed numerous trade deals in a range of areas, including nuclear energy, space technology, aviation and the environment.