China – Visit by Chinese Prime Minister, Li Keqiang, to Marseille and Arles (July 1, 2015)

As Laurent Fabius had suggested during his 10th visit to China on May 15 and 16, Chinese Prime Minister, Li Keqiang, traveled with the minister of foreign affairs and international development to Arles in order to learn about the exceptional ancient heritage of this city; they also visited Marseille.

This visit to France’s second largest city and the surrounding region provided an opportunity for the Chinese prime minister to experience French excellence in the areas of cultural heritage, economic development and innovation.

At the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations (MuCEM), Li Keqiang met, alongside Laurent Fabius, with young French designers and entrepreneurs. Laurent Fabius hosted a gastronomic meal featuring the cuisine of Marseille in his honor which will be attended by political, economic and cultural personalities from the region. Basile Boli, Marseille’s Ambassador for Euro 2016 who has initiated an ambitious cooperation project with China in the field of soccer, chef Gérald Passédat and architect Rudy Riccioti notably attended the dinner.

Li Keqiang also visited the headquarters of CMA CGM, the world’s third largest maritime transport group and a symbol of the economic vitality of Marseille and France. Agreements were signed during this visit.