French President Nicolas Sarkozy on Monday awarded France's Legion of Honor to Chinese Ambassador to France Zhao Jinjun, saluting his efforts to boost bilateral ties.
Sarkozy paid great tribute to the significant progress in France-China relations, citing frequent mutual and friendly visits by leaders of the two countries, and thanked Zhao for his contribution before conferring a "Grand Officer" medal on him at a special ceremony in the Elysee palace.
He also reaffirmed France's commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership with China and said he will go to Beijing to watch the Olympic Games.
For his part, Zhao praised Sarkozy's deep friendship with China and the Chinese people. Noting that China-France ties have entered their best period in history, he expressed confidence that Sarkozy will make new contributions to China-France and China-Europe relations.
"Grand Officier" is the second rank in the National Order of the French Legion of Honor, next only to "Grand Croix." The order, France's highest distinction, was founded by Napoleon Bonaparte to recognize service to the French republic.
Source:Xinhua
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