On March 18, 2003, President Hu Jintao had a phone conversation with French President Jacques Chirac at request. Chirac congratulated Hu Jintao on his assumption of presidency, noting that to strengthen France-China cooperation is the key task of France's foreign affairs work. He said that friendly cooperation between the two countries in every field has made satisfactory progress.  

Hu thanked Chirac on his congratulations and agreed with Chirac's positive views on bilateral ties. Hu said both China and France are big powers with significant world influence. In view of the changing and complicated international circumstances, Hu said that it served the fundamental interests of both countries to further strengthen bilateral coordination and communication. It was of great significance for both nations to safeguard world peace and promote mutual development. Hu also said that China was willing to join with France in promoting a full Sino-French partnership.

On the Iraq crisis, Chirac said the stance upheld by France and China represented the wishes of the international community, but the current situation was growing even serious.  

Echoing Chirac's remarks, Hu pointed out that the only correct path was to give the role of the United Nations full play, preserve the unity and authority of the UN Security Council and solve the Iraq crisis politically within the UN framework. Noting China had contributed much to this end, Hu said both countries, as permanent members of the Security Council should continue to help safeguard world peace.