Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said in Beijing on Friday that pushing forward China-France relations accords with the fundamental interests of the two peoples.

Wen told visiting French President Nicolas Sarkozy that the relations between the two countries, as influential nations, have always been in the front rank of the China-European Union (EU) ties.

The growth of Sino-France relations is of positive significance for the development of China-EU and Asia-EU relations, Wen noted.

In a joint interview with some Chinese media operating in France before his Beijing tour, Sarkozy stressed the significance of the friendly relations. He said his visit would prove that the friendship between France and China is a fundamental axis of France's foreign policy.

Wen spoke highly of Sarkozy's good wishes towards the Chinese people and towards the growth of Sino-France relations.

"We value the cooperation and friendship between the two nations and the two peoples," Wen said, hoping that China and France would maintain the comprehensive, strategic and long-term features of the bilateral relations.

China would work with France to increase consultations and coordination, in a bid to push forward the growth of China-EU and Asia-EU relations, Wen noted.

Sarkozy said China's development is conducive for world peace and stability. Major global issues cannot be resolved in the absence of cooperating with China.

France attaches great importance to relations with China, and is ready to work with China to create a new situation in the bilateral ties, he noted.

Sarkozy expressed his appreciation for China's remarkable work to prepare for the Beijing Olympic Games.

He arrived in Beijing on Friday morning for the Games.

Source:Xinhua