Chinese and French FMs discuss cultural exchange, DPRK

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Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his French counterpart Jean-Yves Le Drian held a joint press conference on deepening China-France friendship and shared views on DPRK nuclear issue.

Ahead of French President Emmanuel Macron's upcoming visit in January, Wang said China remains confident in France's leadership role in the European Union, as more challenges laid ahead for the union.

China hopes to further enhance China-France relationship through cultural exchange and facilitate more academic exchange programs connecting students and scholars.

The two countries will work together as Beijing prepares for the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics, followed by France's 2024 Summer Olympics.

More pressure on the Korean Peninsula

China and France share common ground on the DPRK nuclear issue, as both countries agree the tension in the Korean Peninsula has increased dramatically in recent years.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang shared three potential outcomes regarding the issue: One is DPRK is willing to resume dialogue; second is the peninsula remains stabilized as both sides are willing to talk; third is heading into opposition.

China's FM Wang Yi attends a joint news conference with French FM Jean-Yves Le Drian at Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing. /Reuters Photo‍

Wang referred the solution to the current situation with a Chinese saying, "Like a boat sailing against the current, we must forge ahead or be swept downstream."

Jean-Yves Le Drian said France hoped to continue putting pressure until the DPRK returns to the table.

In terms of current developments, it is unlikely to expect a halt of the DPRK's nuclear development nor military training in South Korea, added Jean-Yves Le Drian.

China and France do hope the DPRK will return to the negotiation table in the near future, while pressure will remain on the Korean Peninsula.

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Source(s): AP ,Xinhua News Agency