China, Australia pledge further cooperation, expanded ties

In Hainan, Hu Jintao has met for talks with Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. The two leaders pledged to promote friendship for the two countries.

Chinese President Hu Jintao (R) shakes hands with Australian  Prime Minister Kevin Rudd who attends the annual meeting  of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) in Sanya, south China's  Hainan Province, April 12, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)

Hu Jintao says China attaches great importance to developing relations with Australia. He says China and Australia enjoy fast growing and sound relations in recent years. Hu points out the two countries have maintained frequent high-level exchanges, fruitful cooperation in various fields and firm mutual support for each other on international and regional issues. Hu Jintao notes the good relationship benefits the whole Asia-Pacific region.

The Chinese president urges the two countries to grasp the opportunities and explore new ways to expand cooperation. Hu Jintao proposed four points to promote cooperation and strengthen dialogue between the two country.

Rudd reiterates that Australia is willing to be a responsible partner with China and a long-term and stable energy supplier.

Rudd says Australia hopes to work with China to increase cooperation in various fields, especially in climate change, sustainable development and international and regional issues. Rudd says Australia hopes to strengthen economic ties with China in three areas---energy and resources cooperation, industrial commodity, and service trade.

Talking about the Lhasa riots, Hu stresses the incidents were not peaceful demonstrations or non-violent actions, but sheer violent crimes.

Hu Jintao says the Tibet problem is entirely China's internal issue.

Hu stresses the door for dialogue between the central government and the Dalai Lama is open. He says as long as separatist activities cease, the Chinese government will continue contacts and talks with the Dalai Lama at any time.

Rudd says Australia fully recognizes China's sovereignty over Tibet and Taiwan and his country remains committed to the one-China policy.

Rudd also wished for a successful Beijing Olympic Games