Visit marks 'pivotal moment' in relations

Former French prime minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin has highlighted the profound significance of Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to France, particularly amid the current turbulent geopolitical landscape and global uncertainties, saying it is not only timely but also essential for fostering deeper mutual understanding and strengthening collaborative efforts between the two nations.

"The visit of President Xi Jinping to France marks a pivotal moment, especially when the world faces such perilous challenges," Raffarin told China Daily in an interview. "We cannot envision the world's future without considering China, and, likewise, it is not in China's interest to disregard Europe."

He emphasized the necessity of continuous dialogue with China. "We need to have a very regular dialogue with China. I think that Emmanuel Macron is the leader of the West who best understands President Xi Jinping's thinking, having spent many hours discussing with the Chinese president," Raffarin said.