Chinese State Councilor Zhou Yongkang said in Beijing Thursday terrorism was threatening world peace and security and it was particularly important for Chinese and French police departments to enhance cooperation in fighting terrorism and transnational crime. 

Zhou, who is also Public Security Minister, made the remarks in talks with visiting French Interior Minister Nicolas Sarkozy.

Zhou said Sarkozy's visit would promote cooperation on security, and push forward the comprehensive partnership between China and France.

Sarkozy said he attached importance to the visit, hoping to further cooperation with China.

The two men signed an agreement on enhancing cooperation between Chinese and French police.

(Xinhua News Agency January 9, 2004)