File photo taken on April 18, 2013 shows Valery Giscard d'Estaing in Paris, France. France's former President Valery Giscard d'Estaing died Wednesday evening at the age of 94, local media reported.Photo:Xinhua

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday extended deep condolences to French President Emmanuel Macron over the passing of the country's former President Valery Giscard d'Estaing.

In his message, on behalf of the Chinese government and people, Xi expressed deep condolences over the death of Giscard d'Estaing, calling him an outstanding French politician and an important promoter of European integration.

Giscard d'Estaing was a big fan of the Chinese culture, actively promoted friendly exchanges and cooperation between China and France, and had made important contributions to the development of bilateral relations, Xi noted.

Stressing that he highly values the China-France friendship, Xi said he is willing to work with President Macron to promote the continuous development of the China-France comprehensive strategic partnership.