Chinese President Hu Jintao addressed the French parliament in
Paris Tuesday. Hu used the speech to stress the importance of
developing China's strategic partnership with France.
Hu said the positive economic cooperation between the two
countries had benefited both nations in the past and would continue
to grow. Hu's address also touched on China's economic growth as
well as the country's foreign policy.
First of all, President Hu Jintao greeted the French people in
the address. Hu said both countries share a long history of
civilization and he saw great potential and broad prospects for
Sino-French cooperation in the future. In the immediate future,
however, Hu put more emphasis on three aspects of Sino-French
relations.
President Hu said, "First, it is important to develop China's
strategic partnership with France. China and France share common
views on major regional and international issues. Both countries
have also reached consensus on a wide range of issues. The
international situation is complicated. China and France should
intensify coordination and cooperation to meet the challenges and
contribute to the realization of lasting world peace and common
prosperity. Secondly, there are lots of opportunities to boost
bilateral economic and trade ties between the largest developing
country in the world and a developed country with advanced
technologies in various fields. Thirdly, cultural exchanges should
play a key role in furthering mutual understanding and friendship
between the people of the two countries."
On the Taiwan issue, Hu reiterated China's stance on the Taiwan
authorities' moves towards independence under the guise of the
upcoming referendum. But he stressed that China feels able to
resolve the Taiwan issue peacefully, and in keeping with the
principle of one China.
Hu also noted the consolidation of Sino-French relations since
the two countries established diplomatic ties 40 years ago, and
said that ties had been deepened thanks to the joint efforts of the
respective leaders over the years.
(CCTV January 28, 2004)