China, France mark the 55th anniversary of establishing diplomatic ties

State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called on France to join hands with China to strengthen bilateral ties and ensure brighter prospects for the future of mankind.

Wang made the statement in a Paris meeting on Thursday with French foreign minister, Jean-Yves Le Drian. Wang was in France for the 18th session of consultation of China-France Strategic Dialogue coordinators.

During the meeting the two foreign ministers also reached broad consensus on the Korean Peninsula issue, the Iran nuclear issue, the Middle East, as well as on strengthening the role of the United Nations and reform of the World Trade Organization.

Saying the two countries’ bilateral ties are defined by mutual understanding and support, Wang stated that high-level development of the partnership can be seen in the strategic cooperation under the framework of Belt and Road Initiative and a joint commitment to address climate change.

China is willing to take this year's 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between the two countries as an opportunity to bring the bilateral ties to a higher level, Wang said.

Le Drian said that France considers French-Chinese relations to be of great importance.

He said France is willing to work with China to plan high-level exchanges, deepen pragmatic cooperation in various sectors, and maintain communication and coordination on important international and regional issues.

France is always open to the investment of Chinese companies and will not discriminate against specific companies, he said.

The two foreign ministers also attended a ceremony in Paris commemorating the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and France. A series of activities will be held in both countries to mark the event.