On September 27, Premier Zhu Rongji held talks with French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin in Paris.

Zhu said that the recent years have witnessed smooth progress in Sino-French relations and fruitful cooperation in various fields. In addition, the two countries share common views and have taken identical positions on a wide range of international issues. China is satisfied with the development of bilateral relations. Zhu said that his contacts with French leaders and people in the past two days have convinced him that bilateral friendship and cooperation have a firm foundation and strong vitality.

Zhu emphasized that China has always attached importance to Sino-French relations. In light of multi-polarization and economic globalization in the world, further strengthening Sino-French cooperation is not only in the fundamental interests of both sides but also is conducive to safeguarding world peace and promoting common prosperity.

Raffarin said that France attaches great importance to its overall partnership with China, and is pleased to have a partner like China. Under the current circumstances, it is imperative for the two countries to further enhance mutual trust and cooperation, and strengthen consultation and coordination within the United Nations Security Council so as to safeguard world peace.

On bilateral economic and trade cooperation, the French side hopes to cooperate with China in the fields of nuclear power, environmental protection and aviation and will transfer technologies and offer personnel training in these areas in order to promote France-China economic and trade cooperation.

Zhu took a positive attitude on the French proposals and appreciated France's willingness to transfer high and new technologies. Zhu invited Raffarin to visit China at his own convenience. Raffarin accepted the invitation with pleasure.

After the talks, Zhu and Raffarin signed an agreement on cultural cooperation between the two countries.