December 1999, the French government approved the sale of dual-use satellites to some Taiwan companies, which again caused a stir in Sino-French relations.

Oct 21-23, 2000, President Jacques Chirac visited China again for the China-EU summit. China and France reaffirmed the sale of satellites to Taiwan hindered the development of bilateral relations, and would consolidate the “comprehensive partnership” from a strategic height and long-term development. The two countries agreed to promote mutual understanding and exchanges in the fields of culture, economy, science and technology, and would organize year-long cultural activities in each other’s countries.

Chinese Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan, right, and French Foreign Minister Hubert Vedrine signed an agreement establishing a hotline between the heads of state; President Jiang Zemin and President Jacques Chirac Oct 23, 2000.