PRC's 76th anniversary celebrated in Paris

The Chinese Embassy in Paris has marked the 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China with a reception attended by diplomats, political leaders, business representatives and members of the French public.

The event underscored the deepening relationship between China and France, built on six decades of diplomatic recognition and growing cooperation.

Speaking to CGTN Europe, Chinese Ambassador to France, Deng Li, highlighted Beijing's priorities for the years ahead, noting that China is preparing its 15th Five-Year Plan with a focus on "high quality development."

"As I said earlier, we are currently working on the 15th Five-Year Plan focused on high quality development, based on some very, very important pillars," Ambassador Deng Li explained. 

"First, the encouragement of innovation, for example, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, new materials, new energies. 

"Second, the modernization of the industrial system to make industry smarter and more efficient. 

"Third, we will consolidate development by relying on the domestic market while promoting openness.

"Fourth, we will deepen reform to create a better environment for economic development…for example, in the areas of finance and the protection of intellectual property. 

"And fifth, of course, is the green transition. It must be accelerated. President Xi Jinping has just announced China's new commitments in this area."

The celebration also included French political figures, including Nicolas Dupont-Aignan, president of Debout la France. 

He underlined the historic importance of Franco-Chinese ties, recalling that France was the first major Western nation to establish relations with the PRC in 1964 under President Charles de Gaulle.

"It is an important day, because it was France, under General de Gaulle, that first recognized the People's Republic of China and set a precedent," Dupont-Aignan told CGTN Europe. 

"I believe in a multipolar world, and at a time when there are so many wars, it is crucial that France and China work more closely together politically. But for this to happen, France must also regain its true independence. There is work to be done, especially to end the conflict in Ukraine, which is suicidal for Europe. I stand for peace, and I am convinced that China can play a role, if France does as well."

Guests enjoyed Chinese cuisine and a video presentation, with the evening serving as both a commemoration of China's achievements and the solidification of a partnership that continues to shape global diplomacy. 

Both Paris and Beijing emphasized their intention to deepen dialogue and cooperation, reinforcing the importance of their relationship in a rapidly changing world.