Xi courts Macron in diplomatic effort to isolate Japanese PM

Emmanuel Macron is flying into another controversy over Taiwan. The French President’s last visit to China, 2½ years ago, was overshadowed by remarks that appeared to put limits on his commitment to supporting Taiwan. A three-day visit that kicks off on Dec 3 comes as the democratically-ruled island claimed by Beijing is back in the spotlight. China has been seeking backup from France – one of five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council – in its recent dispute with Japan over Taiwan’s status. Beijing lashed out after Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested in November that a potential…