Visiting Canadian Minister of Natural Resources Ralph Goodale said at a news conference in Beijing on January 26 that his visit has successfully deepened bilateral relations between Canada and China.

A sustainable, developing Canada-China relationship of mutual benefit has been enhanced through bilateral talks and the numerous seminars on various natural resources held during the current visit, he said.

He pointed out that this positive outcome was demonstrated not only by the improved dialogue and mutual understanding, but also by the important governmental and business agreements signed.

He described his visit as "cordial, substantial and encouraging."

Goodale is visiting China as the head of a large delegation of government officials and representatives of over 70 Canadian companies, most of which are leaders in the natural resources industry.

During his stay in Beijing, representatives from both governments signed memos of understanding on sustainable development in mineral and metal, and forestry industries.

Goodale also met with Chinese Vice-Premier Wen Jiabao, and other senior leaders.

"I believe that our Chinese colleagues will have a deeper understanding of the extensive scope of technology, hi-tech particularly, which Canada possesses in the field of natural resources," he said.

Both nations are expected to cooperate more closely to meet the challenge brought on by changes in the climate, he said.

The Canadian delegation will also visit Shanghai and the Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant in east China and Yunnan province in southwest China.