International relationsMacron, Le Pen and why France's election matters for Xi and Putin
Le Pen urges good Russia relations; Macron says Europe can balance global powers
France will pick either President Emmanuel Macron or far-right challenger Marine Le Pen as its next president on Sunday. The country's future relationship with Russia and China will hinge on the result.(Source photos by AP, Reuters and AFP/Jiji)
MAILYS PENE-LASSUS, Nikkei staff writer
PARIS -- President Emmanuel Macron and far-right challenger Marine Le Pen will face off again Sunday in the second round of the French presidential election. A change of power could alter the political balance in Europe, reshape relations with Russia and China, and affect the position of France in European trade negotiations with the world.