China proposed on Monday to advance its economic and trade relations with France to a new level by taking the opportunities that may emerge when tackling global challenges including the financial crisis and climate change.

Premier Wen Jiabao made the remarks when meeting with visiting French Prime Minister Francois Fillon, who witnessed an unveiling ceremony of the biggest new energy joint venture between the two countries Monday morning.

"We should take the opportunities of tackling the international financial crisis, climate change, energy security and other global challenges, and change our ways of thinking and deepen cooperation to advance bilateral economic and trade relations to a new level," Wen told Fillon

"We should follow the opening and win-win principles, oppose trade protectionism, and take effective measures to help bilateral trade resume growth at an early date," Wen proposed.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (L) holds a welcoming ceremony for French Prime Minister Francois Fillon (R) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Dec. 21.

Statistics showed that the China-France trade volume has been falling since the third quarter of 2008, with China's exports to France declining significantly.

According to China's customs data for the first three quarters of this year, the two countries' trade volume was about 24.6 billion U.S. dollars, down 15.6 percent from the same period last year. It was the first year-on-year decline since 1996.

Wen proposed the two nations increase cooperation in major projects concerning such sectors as nuclear energy, aviation and transport, while environmental protection, new energy and green economy be fostered into new growth momentum in bilateral cooperation.

He also urged expansion of mutual investment and support to exchanges and cooperation between small and medium sized enterprises.

"China is also ready to strengthen cultural and people-to-people exchanges with France to expand the foundation of public support for bilateral friendship," Wen said.