The Consulate General of France in Guangzhou held a reception to celebrate the Bastille Day, French national day on 12 July.

(Photo provided by Consulate General of France in Guangzhou)

"2024 marks a year of celebration between France and China," Sylvain FOURRIERE, Consul General of France in Guangzhou, said during his opening remarks, "as our two countries celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations."

Over the years, cooperation between France and China has been well-established in many areas, including the economy, culture and arts, education, science, and research, most notably the bilateral cooperation in the nuclear sector.

"I am thinking particularly of the sectors of renewable energy and electric vehicles," FOURRIERE, continued, "These sectors could be the foundation of a solid and lasting Franco-Chinese partnership."

Chen Liangxian, a Member of the Leadership of Guangdong Provincial People's Government, addressed the reception and said that Guangdong enjoys deep-rooted interaction and engagement with France.

In 2023, the total value of imports and exports between the Chinese province of Guangdong and France reached 109 billion RMB, accounting for one-fifth of the total trade volume between China and France and topping the national list.

"The two-way trade between Guangdong and France continued to grow by 11.1% in the first quarter of this year," Chen Liangxian added, "maintaining a sound growth momentum."

In less than two weeks, the much-anticipated Paris 2024 Summer Olympic Games will commence.

"This global sporting event is also a celebration of friendship between peoples," FOURRIERE welcomed the best Chinese athletes to Paris. "I can already bet that Chinese athletes will shine during these Paris Olympic Games!"