The two heads of state had an extensive and in depth exchange of views on bilateral ties and major international issues of mutual concern. Jiang said in the meeting that the Chinese government has always attached importance to Sino-French relations and believed that the two sides should consider and handle issues related to bilateral ties with "strategic perspectives" and proceeding from "long-term and fundamental interests of the two countries," as the spokesman put it.

Chirac agreed with Jiang's comments. The two sides agreed that it is necessary for China and France to strengthen consultation and coordination on major international issues under the current complicated and changeable international situation so as to push forward the Sino-French comprehensive cooperative partnership well into the 21st century.

Chirac briefed Jiang on the just-closed Third Asia-Europe Meeting held in Seoul and the development of European construction in recent years. Chirac and his party left here for Beijing this afternoon. He is scheduled to begin his official visit to China tomorrow and attend the third China-EU summit as President of the European Council.

(People's Daily 21/10/2000)