Hu also noted the recent difficulties in China-France relations. But France recently reiterated that it adheres to the one-China policy, recognizes that Tibet is an integral part of Chinese territory and refuses to support any form of "Tibet independence" (see the communiqué). China appreciates this and is pleased to see that China-France relations have returned to normal, Hu said.

Against the backdrop of the deepening international financial crisis, the two countries should follow the correct direction for the development of their bilateral relations, avoid distractions and make joint efforts to advance their relationship, he said.

The London summit gathered G20 leaders as well as representatives of international financial institutions. It was the second G20 head-of-state meeting in the context of the global financial crisis after the Washington summit in November last year.

The G20, or the Group of 20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors, was established in 1999 to bring together important industrialized and developing economies to discuss key issues in the global economy.

Press Communiqué Between China and France

April 1, 2009

After rounds of consultations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China and the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Republic of France have agreed on the following:

The two sides reaffirmed that they attach great importance to China-France relations, and will take the commemoration of the 45th anniversary of China-France diplomatic relations as a good opportunity and work with a strategic and long-term perspective and on the basis of respecting each other and taking into account each other's fundamental interests to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership. China and France reiterated their adherence to the principle of non-interference in each other's internal affairs set forth by the Charter of the United Nations and agreed to enhance consultation on issues relating to the fundamental interests of the two sides in the spirit of mutual trust.

France fully recognizes the importance and sensitivity of the Tibet issue and reaffirms its adherence to the one-China policy and the position that Tibet is an integral part of Chinese territory, in accordance with the decision made by General Charles de Gaulle, which has not changed and will remain unchanged. Based on this spirit and the principle of non-interference in each other's internal affairs, France refuses to support any form of "Tibet independence."

The two sides hold the view that in the context of profound changes in the international political and economic situation, China and France, both permanent members of the UN Security Council, shoulder major responsibilities in maintaining world peace and promoting development. The two sides stand ready to strengthen dialogue and coordination and jointly respond to global challenges including the international financial crisis.

Acting in this spirit, the two sides decided to conduct high-level contact and strategic dialogue at a proper time so as to enhance bilateral cooperation in various fields and promote the harmonious and steady growth of China-France relations.