PARIS, July 3 (Xinhuanet) -- A senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC) spoke highly of the "Chinese Culture Year in France," a nine-month fair aimed at promoting cultural exchanges between China and France.

    Addressing the fair's closing ceremony at the Orangerie du Chateau de Versaille in Paris Friday night, Li Changchun, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, said he was pleased to attend the closing eventon behalf of Chinese President Hu Jintao.

    He said the "Chinese Culture Year in France" will promote the cultural exchanges between China and France and help people from both sides to learn from each other and deepen their friendship, adding that such a fair is also beneficial to safeguarding the cultural diversity of the world.

    Li vowed that China will make joint efforts with France to pushforward the development of the all-round strategic partnership between the two countries.

    Li also wished success for the "French Culture Year in China" that will start in Beijing this October.

    The "Chinese Culture Year in France," initiated by Chinese and French leaders, was launched in Paris last October. About 370 events introducing the Chinese culture, such as exhibitions and concerts, have been staged across France.

    Prior to the closing ceremony, Li met with French Prime Minister Jean-Pierre Raffarin. The two sides exchanged views over political, economic and cultural cooperation between China and France.

    On Friday afternoon, Li visited the Chinese Culture Center in Paris. Enditem