On October 24, 2008, Chinese President Hu Jintao met at the Great Hall of the People with his French counterpart Nicolas Sarkozy, who is here to attend the seventh summit of Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM).

Hu said with the joint efforts of both sides, China-France relations have entered a new phase. Next year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties, which will offer important opportunities for development of bilateral relations, he said. He hoped that both sides will take this opportunity to sum up experience and map out plans for the future in a bid to push bilateral ties to a higher level. Hu called on both sides to map out plans for high-level exchanges through next year, strengthen strategic dialogue, consultation and coordination on key global issues and regional hot issues, and cooperate more closely within multilateral organizations including the United Nations. He urged the two sides to properly handle issues of core interest and concern, continuously deepen political trust, and promote substantial cooperation in economy, trade and new fields. The president also called for more cultural and tourism exchanges and increased number of exchange students in a bid to promote understanding and friendship between the two peoples.

Sarkozy said he always believes that China is France's strategic partner. The two countries should further cooperation in all fields and successfully hold celebrative activities marking the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations to further advance bilateral ties.

Hu expressed gratitude to France, which held the EU’s rotating presidency, for its unique role and active cooperation for the seventh ASEM. He believed that with the joint efforts of all participating parties, this year’s summit will score positive outcome and write a new chapter for ASEM.

Sarkozy said this year’s summit is another important international meeting hosted by China after the Beijing Olympic Games. The summit was held just in time amid the international financial crisis. He expressed the belief that Asian and European nations will strengthen coordination and cooperation in stabilizing the global financial market and make preparations for the convening of the international financial summit.

State Councilor Dai Bingguo attended the meeting.