With the nomination of a new foreign minister in France, China hopes to deepen ties with the country, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said while congratulating Jean-Marc Ayrault - the new French Foreign Minister.

Hong expressed the foreign ministry's enthusiasm about working with the newly appointed French foreign minister, according to Xinhua. On top of the agenda is to push forward bilateral ties with France.

Like Us on Facebook

Ayrault, a former French prime minister, was nominated by French President Hollande Francois this past Thursday to replace Laurent Fabius.

Ayrault has made great contributions to the growth of China-France relations, according to Hong.

The spokesman also spoke highly of the outgoing French foreign minister. Laurent Fabius has played a key role in developing the relations between China and France. Fabius reportedly paid 12 visits to China during his term as foreign minister. He also made intense efforts to advance bilateral cooperation in various fields, Hong added.

Hong said that efforts of Chinese and French government to improve collaboration has led to a new period of closer and enduring relationship between the two countries.

The former foreign minister was forced to step down after criticizing the United States' commitment to resolve the crisis in Syria. Fabius, who has been a key supporter of the Syrian opposition, said that the U.S. ambiguous polices are contributing to the worsening situation.

Hong hopes that Fabius will continue to work for the growing friendship between the two countries

TagsChina-France relations, China-France, Hong Lei, Foreing Ministry, Jean-Marc Ayrault, Francois Hollande, Laurent Fabius, bilaterial cooperation, bilateral cooperation, bilateral trade agreement