Li calls for closer parliamentary exchanges with France

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang (2nd L) meets with Claude Bartolone (2nd R), speaker of the French National Assembly, in Paris, France, June 30, 2015. [Photo/Xinhua]

PARIS - Visiting Chinese Premier Li Keqiang met in Paris Tuesday with French parliamentary leaders, urging the two sides to boost interaction between their legislatures.

Close parliamentary exchanges and local-level cooperation constitute an important component of the China-France comprehensive strategic partnership, Li said during his meeting with Gerard Larcher, president of the French Senate.

Noting that a regular exchange mechanism has been set up between China's top legislature and the French Senate, Li said the Chinese side is willing to enhance communication, understanding and cooperation with the French side.

The premier also expressed the hope that the French Senate will support joint China-France cooperation with third parties.

For his part, Larcher pledged that the French Senate will support the two countries' cooperation with third parties and help boost bilateral political, economic and cultural exchanges under the spirit of former French President Charles de Gaulle, a pioneer who promoted the establishment of diplomatic ties between France and China.

When meeting with Claude Bartolone, speaker of the French National Assembly, Li said the French lower house has maintained close ties with China's top legislative body, which embodies the profound friendship between the two countries.