Hollande hopes China, France contribute to global governance together

World
Europe

01:28

As this year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of Sino-French diplomatic relations, former French President François Hollande shared his view with CGTN on Tuesday on bilateral relations and global governance during the Boao Forum for Asia in Hainan.

Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France in 1964, the ties between the two countries have steadily grown stronger. The friendship between the two countries led to the expansion of cooperation in many areas.

Hollande noted that this year's theme "shared future, concerted action, common development" has a very specific meaning in the current period as multilateralism and free trade are the targets of constant attacks.

While congratulating the great achievements of China during the last 50 years, he said he's happy to see the conviction of China in the opening of its market and promises of the cooperation between the two countries in various fields, such as peace issues, climate change, culture, and high technologies development.

In the interview, he indicated that the proposition of "building a community with a shared future of mankind" by President Xi Jinping and the "one planet lab" co-hosted by President Macron have many things in common and inspire much each other.

"We have only one planet. This is agreed by everyone. I noticed that both President Xi and Macron has emphasized the 'partnership' during this meeting. China and France should work together which has a big importance," Hollande said.

On the Belt and Road Initiative, he noted that the development should be benefited by the whole body of mankind and take the chance to eliminate prejudice and inequity.

Hollande spoke highly of the Chinese government's developing diplomatic relations under the principles of mutual respect, equity, and mutual benefit.

He hoped China can work with France and Europe together to contribute to global governance in the future.

When asked what's the biggest achievement and regret during his tenure, Holland replied with no hesitation that the biggest achievement is the Paris Agreement and the regret is that he didn't serve a second term.

(Top image via CGTN)