In talks with Sarkozy, Hu said the China-France relationship has been characterized by its strategic and global nature and its ability to move with the times since diplomatic ties were forged 46 years ago.

Political dialogue has increasingly deepened and political mutual trust strengthened, said Hu.

Bilateral trade is expected to exceed US$40 billion this year, and mutual investment has continuously increased, he said.

The two countries have carried out extensive exchanges and cooperation in education, science and technology, and culture, and have kept close communication and coordination on major international issues, he added.

Sarkozy said it was a great honor to receive Hu in his second state visit to France.

Sarkozy congratulated China on the successful holding of the World Expo in Shanghai, saying the expo was another major international event hosted by China after the 2008 Beijing Olympics.