China, France to safeguard multilateralism

China and France agreed on Thursday to safeguard multilateralism and promote the reform of international institutions such as the World Trade Organization.

The two countries should strengthen strategic communication and coordination to maintain the free trade system, multilateralism and the existing international order, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi said at a joint news conference after meeting in Beijing with French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian.

The visit is Le Drian's fourth since he became foreign minister. He will co-chair the 25th meeting of the Joint Committee of China-France Trade and Economic Cooperation with Minister of Commerce Zhong Shan on Friday.