Hu, Chirac hold talks
(Agencies)
Updated: 2004-10-09 16:02

Chinese President Hu Jintao and French President Jacques Chirac held talks in the Great Hall of the People Saturday afternoon.

President Hu Jintao shakes hands with visiting French President Jacques Chirac (R) Saturday in Beijing, October 9, 2004. [Xinhua]

The two presidents exchanged views on bilateral ties and international and regional issues of mutual concern.

President Hu extended welcome to President Chirac on behalf of the Chinese government and the Chinese people.

The Chinese president said President Chirac was an old friend of the Chinese people, who has been promoting Sino-French friendship for years and made important contributions to the Sino-French comprehensive strategic partnership.

Hu said he believed this visit would help advance the Sino-French comprehensive strategic partnership.

Chirac said he was very glad to visit China again and was deeply impressed by the warm welcome to him in Chengdu, capital city of Sichuan Province and first leg of his China tour. He also spoke highly of the economic achievement in Sichuan.

A number of agreements were expected to be signed after the talks and then the two presidents will meet journalists.

Chirac arrived in Chengdu, capital city of southwest China's Sichuan Province Friday evening, beginning his five-day state visit to China as guest of President Hu Jintao. He arrived in Beijing Saturday afternoon.

Besides Chengdu and Beijing, Chirac and his entourage will alsovisit Shanghai and Hong Kong. He is to attend the opening ceremonyof the French Culture Year in China.

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