Premier Wen Jiabao arrived in Paris on Sunday for an official visit to France aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation. President Jacques Chirac, Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin and President of the French National Assembly Jean-Louis Debré are expected to hold talks with him during his stay.

In a written speech released upon his arrival, Wen said both countries have a long history and a splendid culture, with a long-standing friendship between their two peoples.

In recent years, he said, they have deepened political dialogue, maintained good cooperation in international affairs, conducted closer cooperation in the fields of economy, science and technology, culture and education and promoted in-depth mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of China and France and Europe at large.

Wen said he is looking forward to having an in-depth exchange of views with French leaders on issues of mutual concern and making broad contacts with friends from all circles, so as to further understanding, expand common ground, promote cooperation and press ahead with the development of the Sino-French comprehensive strategic partnership.

Earlier yesterday, Wen visited French and European aviation and space companies en route to Paris, notably the European Aeronautic Defense and Space Company and aircraft maker Airbus in Toulouse in southwestern France.

At the headquarters of Airbus, Wen attended the signing ceremony for a memorandum of understanding between China's National Development and Reform Commission and Airbus on cooperation in the aviation industry.

(Xinhua News Agency December 5, 2005)