Foreign and Military Affairs
Hu calls for development of ties with France, Portugal, Europe
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-11-03 18:59
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BEIJING - Chinese President Hu Jintao on Tuesday called for the further development of China's relations with France, Portugal, and Europe as a whole.
In a written interview with France's Le Figaro newspaper and Portugal's Lusa News Agency, President Hu, due to visit the two countries from November 4 to 7, answered questions regarding the development of relations and other issues.
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Now, at a time when the international situation is undergoing fundamental and complicated changes, it is necessary for the two countries, both permanent members of the UN Security Council and shouldering great responsibility in world affairs, to add new content to their ties.
China is ready to hold a sincere dialogue with France to enhance understanding and trust, mutual respect and fair play to maintain the sound and stable development of bilateral ties.
China would like to expand its trade with France, steadily promote bilateral cooperation in such traditional fields as nuclear power and aerospace, and actively explore cooperation in such areas as energy conservation and environmental protection, information technology, high-end manufacturing, new energy, and new material, the Chinese president said.
More importantly, their bilateral cooperation should go beyond simple trade and investment relations, but grow into that between equal cooperation partners.
The two countries, both boasting a rich culture, should also further expand cultural and people-to-people exchanges, Hu noted.
The Chinese president also suggested the two countries strengthen strategic coordination and jointly tackle global challenges.
Hu expressed confidence that the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries could be taken to a higher level through joint efforts, and thus better serve the two countries and peoples.
Regarding the development of Sino-Portuguese ties, Hu said that the ties have a long history. The successful transfer of the exercise of sovereignty of Macao in 1999 was exemplary in resolving the historical issues between both countries.
In 2005, China and Portugal established a comprehensive strategic partnership, announcing a new era in their bilateral ties, with rewarding bilateral exchanges and cooperation in various fields.
China is ready to work with Portugal to enhance political mutual trust and expand exchanges, as well as explore down-to-earth cooperation, so as to promote the development of both sides and jointly cope with global challenges.
The Chinese side is confident about the future of Sino-Portuguese relations, Hu said.
