President Hu Jintao and French President Jacques Chirac discussed bilateral relations and major international issues of common concern and reached broad consensus at the Elysee Palace in Paris Monday, Jan. 26, 2004. In their first meeting after Hu's arrival in Paris, the two presidents spoke highly of the 40 years of relations between China and France since the two countries established full diplomatic ties.  [Xinhua]

President Hu Jintao (L) is welcomed by French President Jacques Chirac at the Elysee Palace in Paris, Monday, Jan. 26, 2004. Hu arrived in Paris for a four-day state visit marking the 40th anniversary of Chinese-French relations. [AFP]

From left: French President Jacques Chirac,President Hu Jintao,First Lady Liu Yongging and French First Lady Bernadette Chirac pose before a state diner hosted by Chirac at the Elysee Palace, Monday, Jan. 26, 2004 in Paris. [AP]

French President Jacques Chirac, on red carpet, right, shakes hand with his Chinese counterpart Hu Jintao upon their arrival at the Elysee Palace, in Paris, Monday, Jan. 26, 2004.Republican Guards frame the two presidents.  [AP]

French republican guards escort President Hu Jintao on his way to the Elysee Palace to meet French President Jacques Chirac past the Champs Elysee in Paris.  [AFP]

French President Jacques Chirac, left, welcomes President Hu Jintao, right, waving upon his arrival at Orly Airport, south of Paris, Monday, Jan. 26, 2004 for a four-day state visit.  [AP]