Beijing, October 28th—Liu Haixing, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), met here today with Bertrand Lortholary, French Ambassador to China.

Liu said, under the guidance of the two heads of state, China-France relations have made new progress in recent years. Political party diplomacy is an important part of China's overall diplomacy. The CPC has long maintained exchanges and cooperation with major French political parties. The fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee was successfully held recently, and the 15th Five-Year Plan for China's economic and social development was adopted at the plenary session. The scientific formulation and continuous implementation of five-year plans constitute vital experience of the CPC in governing the country. The CPC is willing to strengthen exchanges and mutual learning of experience in state governance and administration with major French political parties, jointly implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, and contribute to the development of China-France and China-Europe relations. 

Bertrand Lortholary said, the current international situation and China-France relations are at a critical moment of development. The friendship between France and China is a valuable asset of the two countries. France is willing to work with China to speak with one voice on bilateral cooperation and major international issues. Inter-party exchanges between France and China have made important contributions to bilateral relations. The French Embassy in China will continue to actively support exchanges and visits between the two countries' political parties. 

Ma Hui, Vice-minister of the IDCPC, was present.