An exposition of Chinese science and technology opened in Paris recently to display the latest achievements in research and the application of high technologies, agricultural and durable technologies in China and Chinese-French cooperation in the science-tech field.

The expo is one of the major expositions of the Year of China in France, which, inaugurated last week, is expected to bring 300-plus major cultural events across the French territory till July 2004.

"As a French citizen, minister of research and former astronaut, I am very glad to join the opening ceremony of the exposition," said French Minister of Research Claudie Haignere. "I wish to express the congratulation of our government and our country for the performance of Mr. Yang Liwei, the Chinese astronaut, who just came back from the space after an excellent mission," said Haignere, who stayed for eight days in the International Space Station in October 2001.

"China has an immense scientific and technological potential and is a great partner for France and Europe," she said.

The exposition displays latest achievements in China covering various fields including biotechnology, information, new material, environment and space.