Xi Jinping extends condolences over passing of former French President Valery Giscard d'Estaing
Updated 23:35, 04-Dec-2020
CGTN

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday sent a message of condolence to French President Emmanuel Macron over the passing of former French President Valery Giscard d'Estaing.

Giscard, who had been in hospital several times in the past months for heart problems, died surrounded by his family on Wednesday at their estate in the Loire region, his family said in a statement.

Read more: France mourns death of 'modernizing' former president Giscard d'Estaing

In his message, Xi noted that Giscard was an outstanding French politician and an important promoter of European integration.

"He loved Chinese culture and actively promoted friendly exchanges and cooperation between China and France, making important contributions to the development of bilateral ties," Xi said.

He stressed that he greatly values the friendship between China and France and is willing to work with President Macron to promote the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and France. 

(Cover photo: Former French President Valery Giscard d'Estaing poses in his office at his Paris home during an interview with Reuters, France, December 6, 2011. /Reuters)