Chinese President Jiang Zemin joined a packed house at the Great Hall of the People on the evening of November 19 for the premier of the National Symphony of France.

Prior to the performance, Jiang met with French Ambassador to China Pierre Morel, musical director and conductor Charles Dutoit, and other members of the orchestra.

Jiang said that music is an international language which resonates for all the world's people. He expressed the hope that cultural exchanges between China and France would continue to help deepen mutual understanding and friendship between the two peoples.

Founded in 1934, the French National Symphony is the longest- running orchestra in France and famous world-wide for its virtuosity.

It gives about 70 concerts a years along with participating in various music activities. In 1996, the orchestra, led by Dutoit, performed in the China Year of the Symphony, making a deep impression on the Chinese audience.

This evening's repertoire included Roman Carnival Overture of Berlioz, L'apprenti Sorcier of Dukas, Concerto No.2 of Saint Saens, and other pieces by French composers.