What they say

Jean-Pierre Raffarin, former French prime minister
China has excellent products in the fields of food, tea and grape cultivation. Wine is actually an art of life, which connects the Chinese and French people. We all love to sit around the table, get together, exchange drinks and share opinions. This tradition will continue to be carried forward. I am very happy to see that Ningxia pays attention to the exchanges and development in the above fields. It is these exchanges that have brought people closer together. The Sino-French friendship has a long history, and this exchange is like a long river of friendship between the two sides. The two governments share the vision and hope that the world will develop in a balanced manner. Indeed, we need to develop. It is necessary to promote exchanges and boost the economy to increase employment and achieve growth. Like China, France chooses win-win cooperation, rather than unilateralism. In today's world, no country can succeed alone. We need to unite and gather strengths and talents.

Regina Vanderlinde, president of Paris-based International Organization of Vine and Wine

This expo demonstrates the important position of Ningxia's wine industry in China. Since its establishment in 1924, the International Organization of Vine and Wine has developed into a technological benchmark for the world wine industry. With 47 member states, its wine production accounts for 84 percent of the world's production, and consumption accounts for 65 percent of the world's. The wine industry in Asia has achieved sustained and steady growth. If China can become a member of the organization, our cooperation will be able to go to the next level, and the organization will be proud of it. In addition, we are adhering to the wine industry strategy to meet consumer needs in terms of social responsibility, sustainable development, innovation and environmental protection. I was fortunate to witness the vitality of Ningxia. With the support of the government's preferential policies and improving product quality and recognition, the Ningxia production area has achieved significant development.

This is a translation of some parts of the two speakers' speeches for the event.