Hong Hupeng, mayor of Huzhou, meets with a government delegation from Montargis, France, led by Benoit Digeon, on Nov 12. [Photo/WeChat account: huzhoufabu]

Hong Hupeng, mayor of Huzhou, met with a government delegation from Montargis, France, led by Benoit Digeon, on Nov 12.

During the meeting, Hong offered a warm welcome to Digeon and his delegation and expressed his appreciation for the warm reception of the Huzhou delegation to Montargis earlier this year. Hong emphasized the positive impact of the friendly exchanges between the two cities since 2003, which have resulted in various collaborations in trade, economy, culture, and education.

As next year marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and France, Huzhou intends to commemorate the milestone by organizing a series of exchange activities with Montargis. Hong expressed his enthusiasm for further strengthening cooperation and exchanges in areas such as economy, trade, ecology, culture, tourism, and education, in order to reinforce the friendship between the two cities.

In response, Digeon expressed his admiration for the historical ties and emotional connection between Montargis and China. He highlighted the significant influence Montargis had on Chinese students in the 1920s, as many of them gained new ideas and knowledge while studying and working in the city. Digeon expressed his delight at visiting Huzhou, viewing it as a continuation of the cities' friendship. He emphasized the importance of exchanges and cooperation in fields such as art, ecology, agriculture, tourism, architecture, and education. Digeon believes that by actively promoting collaboration in these areas, the friendship between Montargis and Huzhou will continue to thrive.