Chinese Vice-Premier Meets Australian GuestsVice-Premier Wen Jiabao met with former Australian Prime Minister John Keating and his party Monday.Wen expressed his appreciation for Keating's contribution to promoting Sino-Australian relations. He said China and Australia have maintained a good relationship since the two countries forged diplomatic ties in 1972. In particular, he said, during the visit by Chinese President Jiang Zemin to Australia last year, the leaders of the two countries forged favorable relations for cooperation in the long-term. Since then, Sino-Australian cooperation in all fields has been further elevated. Wen briefed his guests on Chinese economic and social development and on the Chinese government's view on the Asian-Pacific region. He also reaffirmed the Chinese government's stance on the Taiwan issue. Keating said he is confident towards the development of China, and would like to make all efforts to develop healthy relations between China and Australia. He said Australia has supported the one-China stance and will continue to do so. The Australian Guests are visiting China at the invitation of the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs. |
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