Over the past 60 years, China-France relations have long been at the forefront of China’s ties with major Western countries, setting a prime example for countries with different social systems to coexist in peace and pursue win-win cooperation, Chinese President Xi Jinping said in a written speech on Sunday upon his arrival in Paris for a state visit to France.

Xi expressed his great pleasure to begin his third state visit to France at the invitation of President Emmanuel Macron.

« Back in 2014 and 2019, I paid two visits to France, both in spring, to celebrate the 50th and 55th anniversaries of our diplomatic relations together with the people of France, » Xi noted in the written speech.

As the two countries celebrate the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, Xi said he has a strong sense of déjà vu when setting foot again on the soil of France. 

« On behalf of the Chinese government and people, I wish to take this opportunity to extend our warmest greetings and best wishes to the French government and people, » said the Chinese president.

As important representatives of Eastern and Western civilizations, China and France have a long history of mutual appreciation and admiration, he noted, adding that French Enlightenment thinkers studied Chinese culture centuries ago, and great French thinkers and writers such as Voltaire, Diderot, Hugo and Balzac are household names in China.

« In recent years, our relationship has risen to new heights, and we keep making new progress in our cooperation on aviation, aerospace, nuclear energy, agrifood and green development, » Xi said, adding that the two countries enjoy close coordination and cooperation on climate response, biodiversity protection and global governance.

Noting that activities for the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism are unfolding across the board, Xi said a growing China-France relationship not only brings benefits to the two peoples, but also provides stability and positive energy to the turbulent world.

Xi said during the visit, he will have an in-depth exchange of views with President Macron on growing China-France and China-Europe relations under the new circumstances as well as major international and regional issues in the world today.

« I hope this visit will help cement our long-standing friendship, enhance political trust, build strategic consensus and deepen exchanges and cooperation in various fields, » Xi said, expressing his hope that the two countries will open a brighter future of bilateral relations and make new contributions to world peace, stability and development.