China and France on Monday issued a joint statement to strengthen marine cooperation.

The statement was released during Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to France, where he and French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed the vital role of the two maritime nations in protecting marine ecosystems.

The two sides agreed to take action to protect and restore marine and coastal biodiversity, and promote environmental multilateralism. They also aim to combat illegal fishing and prevent and control marine pollution.

Additionally, efforts will be made to strengthen financing for biodiversity conservation. Scientific cooperation will be enhanced, along with cooperation in green shipping and the blue economy.

(Cover: Aerial photo of the marine environment in south China's Hainan Province, August 4, 2023. /CFP)