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BEIJING, May 17 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang met with French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault and discussed bilateral cooperation on Monday.

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang(R) meets with French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault in Beijing, capital of China, May 16, 2016.(Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

Li said the Chinese government attaches great importance to relations with France and is ready to expand bilateral nuclear energy cooperation, increase two-way investment, jointly explore markets in third countries, and strengthen communication and coordination on regional and international affairs.

Li also briefed Ayrault on China's economic and financial situation as requested. He said China has seen stable economic and financial performance this year, with good momentum in structural adjustment and transformation, as well as controllable debt levels.

He said China's development is still facing multiple difficulties and challenges as the world economy experiences a sluggish recovery. However, China is capable, through comprehensive reform and opening up, of keeping economic performance within a reasonable range, maintaining sound economic fundamentals, preventing systemic financial risks and maintaining financial stability.

Ayrault expressed optimism about China's economic development prospects and confidence about future development of France-China relations and cooperation.

He said France is willing to strengthen high-level, people-to-people and cultural exchanges with China and promote cooperation in areas including nuclear energy and electricity.