Australia Wishes to Expand Cooperation with ChinaAustralia wishes to expand cooperation with China in the information and communications sectors, said Australian Senator and Minister of Communications, Information Technology and Arts Richard Alston at a new briefing in Beijing Friday, December 15.Alston noted that China's economy has experienced significant growth, due to the reform and opening up, and that he is here mainly to "explore possible areas of cooperation" between Australia and China. Alston said next year will be "a very big year for China," particularly with the decision on the 2008 Olympic Games, China's entry into the World Trade Organization and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit to be held in Shanghai. He said Australia supports China in these events and is looking forward to the outcome of the events. Alston said Australia wishes to find its niche in the Chinese market, given that it has leading expertise in software development and smart-card technologies, which can be used for on-line transactions in diverse sectors, including public transport, public health, banking, insurance and social welfare. Alston is here as guest of China's Ministry of Information Industry. Chinese Vice-Premier Wu Bangguo met with Alston on Thursday. |
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