Chinese President Xi Jinping on Saturday published a signed article in leading French newspaper Le Figaro ahead of his state visit to the European country, calling for solid steps on a common journey toward new and greater achievements in China-France cooperation. 

Xi hailed the past 55 years of mutual support and win-win cooperation between China and France, adding there will be more great potential and future prospects in bilateral ties. 

The two countries are making steadier progress in pushing their relations forward and making good progress in jointly undertaking the Belt and Road Initiative, he noted, adding that the pie of the two nations' converging interests is getting bigger. 

"We are cementing the foundation of our friendship," Xi also said. The two countries have developed a thick network of subnational exchanges and cooperation as well as conducted close personnel and cultural exchanges. 

While stressing that the world is undergoing major changes and humanity stands at a critical stage of development, Xi said China will continue to forge ahead with France shoulder to shoulder as France's comprehensive strategic partner. 

He hoped the two sides will seize the historic opportunity, meet challenges with joint efforts, and deepen strategic mutual trust in order to broaden the horizon for China-France common development and shared prosperity. 

To succeed in this endeavor, Xi encouraged the two countries to act out four key principles – independence, openness and win-win, inclusiveness and mutual learning, and strong sense of responsibility. 

Full text of President Xi's signed article: "Move Together Toward Common Development"