Zhuang Rongliang, vice mayor of Xiamen, met with Sylvain Fourriere, consulate general of France in Guangzhou, and his delegation on Jan 22.
Zhuang briefly introduced the basic situation in Xiamen. He stated that since Xiamen and Nice, France established sister-city relationships in May 2014, the two cities have enjoyed extensive and fruitful exchanges in various fields such as culture, education, tourism, and technology. In the future, there is enormous potential for economic and trade cooperation between Xiamen and France.
This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France. Zhuang said hopes that both sides will take the strategic consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries as a guide, leverage their respective strengths, and further explore the potential for cooperation in various fields.
He welcomes French companies to participate extensively in high-level exhibitions, sports events, film festivals, and other activities held in Xiamen to share in the opportunities brought about by the city's development. Xiamen also encourages Chinese companies to invest and develop in France.
Fourriere said that France and Xiamen have long maintained close ties, and the annual Jimei-Arles International Photography Festival has become a major event in the photography industry.
He added that French enterprises in Xiamen have given high praise to the local business environment. He said hopes that the visit will serve as an opportunity to promote deeper and more pragmatic project cooperation in various fields between France and Xiamen, further enhancing the friendly relations between the two sides.
China announced and implemented on May 15 a policy allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships via all cruise ship ports along the country's coastline.
China and Georgia are set to waive visa requirements for travelers starting May 28.
