Innovation key for China and France: Li(2)

Launch ceremony

Hollande said France will try every method to simplify the visa process, to attract more Chinese students to study in the country.

He made the pledge in Shanghai on Friday when he delivered a speech at the launch ceremony for an education program jointly set up by ParisTech — a collegiate university based in Paris specializing in science and business — and Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

"China and France enjoy long-lasting friendship, and maintaining good friendship requires cooperation not only in politics but also in many other aspects including economy and science," he said.

France is willing to accompany China via its development, and is willing to cooperate with China in fields including science and technology, training and university education, Holland said.

"Currently, there are about 35,000 Chinese students studying in France ... and about 30,000 French youngsters are studying Chinese language in school. I see we have the ability to effectively further enhance mutual understanding," he said.