Jean-Pierre Raffarin, who served as French prime minister from 2002 to 2005 when Jacques Chirac was president, has shared with CGTN the former leader's affection and friendship with China, stressing the importance of respect and dialogue in diplomacy.

Chirac, who took residence at the Elysee Palace for 12 years on being elected twice as head of state in 1995 and 2002, was particularly remembered and praised by Chinese people for his significant contributions to promoting the Sino-French relations during the "golden decade."

During Chirac's presidency, France was among the first western powers to establish a comprehensive partnership and a comprehensive strategic partnership with China in 1997 and 2004, respectively. 

His demise at the age of 86 on Thursday has come as a massive shock for the entire country with tributes and condolences pouring in from world leaders and people on social media.

"Jacques Chirac always thought, like we think today in China, that it is cooperation, it is dialogue, it is listening, it is respect, which brings peace," Raffarin recalled. 

"And I believe that there is between him and the Chinese leaders an understanding of the future. An understanding of history. An understanding of the concept of the long term which, basically, is our trademark in all great civilizations."

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A Chinese culture buff

"He (Chirac) was passionate about old civilizations. He was passionate about Asia. He was passionate about Chinese culture," Raffarin told CGTN reporter.

"I remember that he had great discussions with Chinese leaders," Raffarin added, underlining that Chirac was one of the first, first in Europe, then in the world afterwards, to say and defend the idea that Chinese writing was the first in the world."

A peace activist 

"Jacques Chirac was able to fight for his ideas. He was a peace activist," Raffarin said.

"You know, there is in politics a lot of harshness, a lot of tension, a lot of pressure. But the greats, the great leaders, are people who know from time to time to see the heart first," he added. "He (Chirac) was capable of firmness, he was capable of courage. But he had this interest to others."

"In the heart of everyone in France, there was some affection, and it varied from one citizen to another, but there was a part of affection for president Chirac," Raffarin said.

A father-like 'brother'

Hailing his special relationship with former French president, Raffarin told CGTN he had "a lot of emotions" over Chirac's death.

"For three years I was his prime minister. I had a relationship of trust, a relationship of respect, a relationship of affection," Raffarin said. 

"He (Chirac) was for me like a father. From time to time, like a brother. We had great moments together and working with him was for me a great honor."

Chirac was respected around the world and everyone knew about his great humanity, he added.  

Chinese leaders pay tribute 

This year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relationship between China and France. 

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Chinese President Xi Jinping, on Friday, in his message of condolence, hailed Chirac as an "old friend of China," calling his death a huge loss for both the French people and the Chinese people.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on the same day also sent a condolence message to convey his profound condolences and sincere sympathy.

Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan on Saturday visited the French embassy in Beijing to mourn Chirac's passing.