Xi's France visit: New starting point for common development

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping is paying a state visit to France as the two countries celebrate their 55^th anniversary of diplomatic ties.</p><p>Fifty-five years ago, France became the first major Western country to establish diplomatic relations with China.</p><p>In a signed article published in a French newspaper ahead of his arrival, Xi said he would bring goodwill to France, a special friendship to the French people and the expectations to enhance relations.</p><p>Xi said his expectations are based on the two countries&#39; past 55 years of mutual support and win-win cooperation, and from the great potential and future prospects that our bilateral relations hold.</p><p>China and France now stand at a new starting point. Xi called on the two countries to join hands and set off on a common journey towards new and greater achievements in their cooperation.</p><p><span style="color: rgb(127, 127, 127);">(Produced by Liang Peiyu and Chen Lidan)</span></p>