China's annual Two Sessions, the most important political event of the year, has also caught the attention of international politicians. One of the much-anticipated topics is the annual GDP growth target. In a recent interview with CGTN, former French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin says China's growth is very important as it is a major contributor to global progress and development. 

JEAN-PIERRE RAFFARIN Former French Prime Minister, CEIBS Distinguished Professor "China's growth is very important because it is one of the major drivers of international growth. The world needs growth, but I believe what is important is not just the rate, but the quality of growth. I see that very significant efforts are being made to ensure that this growth is compatible with the Paris Agreement and sustainable development goals. I believe this is a very important element in the convergence between France and China today – ensuring that we have quality growth and growth that is truly in line with our commitments under the Paris Agreement."

WU BIN CGTN Reporter "China's annual Two Sessions, the National People's Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) are going to be held very soon. What are your observations on the Two Sessions? What are some of the topics for discussion that you consider to be important this year?"

JEAN-PIERRE RAFFARIN Former French Prime Minister, CEIBS Distinguished Professor "I think the international situation today is worrying. We are seeing wars on many continents. The world is dangerous, the world is nervous and I believe that we need the wisdom of our ancient civilizations. I think it is important for the national assemblies of all countries to be concerned about the international situation and to pursue ways of achieving peace. Of course, I have noted that in China, as in almost every other part of the world, we are having to deal with the economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic. We need to boost consumption, we need to develop international trade and have debates to choose the right policies. It's the same in both China and France."

WU BIN CGTN Reporter "There are over 2,000 French companies in China. What attracts French enterprises to China? Are they confident about the Chinese market?"

JEAN-PIERRE RAFFARIN Former French Prime Minister, CEIBS Distinguished Professor "I think all the companies here are confident. I think Sanofi, Schneider, Air Liquide, L'oréal and many others are confident about the developing Chinese market. It's a market that accepts innovation, it's a market that is very dynamic in terms of creativity. Yes, the Chinese market is very attractive to large companies. Small companies are a little afraid of the distance, because we are so far away. They can also be afraid of the complexities – due to the different languages, cultures and civilizations. The French government is, therefore, doing a lot to help companies come here to form partnerships and, above all, to prepare for the future."

WU BIN CGTN Reporter "As two permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, what do you think the two countries can do together to enhance global peace and stability?"

JEAN-PIERRE RAFFARIN Former French Prime Minister, CEIBS Distinguished Professor "I think that together we need to invent a new kind of multilateralism. Today's international organizations, in particular the UN, despite all the efforts of Secretary General Antonio Guterres, are somewhat powerless. 

I was at the 3rd Silk Roads Forum, where I represented President Macron, and I listened carefully to President Xi Jinping's speech. He proposed 8 major steps for high-quality Belt & Road cooperation. In each of these steps, there were proposals for an international organization to implement. 

I think, for example, when it comes to artificial intelligence, we need a regulatory agency. I think it would be good for France and China to work together on these projects. 

Today, WTO is somewhat paralyzed, UN is experiencing difficulties, Security Council is malfunctioning, and new solutions need to be found. I think that France and China can help invent a new multilateralism that is operational and peaceful."

Source | CGTN